seperation

by vamer

ok

Separation [Classroom of the elite]
ScarletZyens

Published: 2023
Source: https/

Chapter One: Types of humanity

In this world, there are many things to define humans. They are sure to be many types but the important ones to be a human are to have equality, morality, intelligence, and greed.

That's what all humans have in common, right? Even though the words intelligence and morality could be different for all of us.

April 1st
??? POV

"Um, excuse me. But can you offer your seat up? The elder needs to sit there since it is a prototype seat. As you can see, her back isn't fully straight so she may have trouble standing.." A girl's voice asks politely for the boy who has long blond hair that's reaching to his shoulders. "My, My pretty girl. Yes, it is a priority seat but there is no law requiring me to sit on it. Do you want me to just give it up because I am young? Such nonsense. Standing consumes more stamina than just sitting."

"I thought you would contribute to society." She said still trying to convince the boy. "Look around. These people seem to be sitting in chairs that aren't priority seats. Seems so trivial to me." He said while having his hand touching his hair, stylish much...

"Please don't mind me. Really, I'm fine. But thank you.." the elder lady said with a smile on her face. The girl with blond hair seems to not give up on the elder lady. "Excuse me! Would any of you be willing to give up your seat?.." she asked looking around.

I look around the bus room. Nobody seems to be willing to give up their seat. The guy who is sitting next to me is doing the same. I look at the girl with black hair who didn't seem to care at all and reading her book.

"Uhm... I can give up my seat." The woman got up after raising her hand. The girl seems grateful that the elder lady got her seat. I turn my head, leaning against the window.

Some time has passed and the bus has finally stopped. The students walked out, following the rest of the students. I stop to see the girl suddenly talking to the male student who was sitting next to me. Probably confronting him because he was staring at her. I didn't care what they were talking about, I continue heading to the entrance ceremony.

The entire school has gathered in the gym, listening to the entrance ceremony. It's a freaky coincidence that the same boy I was sitting across in the bus and the girl who was reading her book are in the same class all three of us. After the ceremony was done, it was the most... Boring speech ever.

I have walked to my designated class, I look at the sign. Class is 1-D. I entered to see students chatting, I look around the room. Searching for my designated seat. I approach my desk and sat down on the chair. I'm sitting in front of the man whose face seems stoic. He seems bored out of mind. Or is it his usual face?

"An unpleasant coincidence." The long black hair said, still reading her book. "I feel the same way." My eyes were looking at the two students which both seem to not care. When he spoke, his voice sound so monotone. He turns his head to look at me. "Hello." Oh. He greeted me. I can tell he's not the person to have high communication skills.

"Hello." I greeted him back. Why does he look familiar? Looking at him up close, he looks similar to me...

"Everyone, May I have a moment? I was hoping that we all introduce ourselves. That way we can jump on getting acquainted. The teacher seems to be not here yet. How about it?" The boy with dark greenish hair seems to be like a leader. He sure has confidence.

"I'm Hirata Yosuke. Just call me Yosuke, no need for formalities. I play all kinds of sports but I mostly want to join a soccer club. Nice to meet you all!" His voice sounds happy and confident. Yeah no doubt, he sure is suited to be a class leader.

"I'll go next!" My eyes turn to look at the tie with blond hair and red eyes. Yep, the same person who tries to help the old lady. "My name is Kushida Kikyō. My goal is to be friends with everyone! I'd like to make great memories so don't hesitate to invite me into your group!" She bows. Her face though reminds me of a facade. Probably just my imagination...

I seem to be listening to other people's introductions. They sure love to hear about themselves...

"Next up is you." Yosuke looks at the boy who's behind me. "Huh? Me?" I turn my head to look at him. "Uh. I'm Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. Uh... I look forward to studying with you... Uh. I'm not good with anything in particular. Uh.. I'll work hard to get along with everyone." He blew it, didn't he?

Pity claps can be heard, for once I feel bad for him. "Nice to meet you, Ayanokouji-Kun. Next is you." So I'm next.

I stood up, looking at everyone. "Hello, I am Akiyama Miyako. I don't have any exciting things about myself but I do enjoy reading books and playing chess even the piano but I'm not that talented at it. I look forward to studying with all of you and hope to get along with everyone." Instead of pity claps, I ended up having questions.

One of the girls raised her hand. "Quick question! Is Ayanokouji-Kun related to you?" Strange question to ask...

"No. May I ask why?" I look at the student who had their hair up and seems to be like Kushida's personality. Bubbly.

"Oh. It's just looking at you two. You both look alike." I turn to look at Ayanokouji. I turn to look back at her. "Oh. It's a coincidence." Another hand was raised.

"Are you sure? It sure sounds like it. You both have boring voices." Wait?.. I thought it was just how I sound like.

Another question was raised. "You both even have similar surnames." Why are these questions involve me and Ayanokouji? Is this what they call shipping?

Suddenly I heard a kick to the desk and I turn to the source. A red hair man looks like a delinquent. "Introductions? Please! Do that if you want but we're not little kids."

"Uh.." the sensei came into the classroom. Perfect timing...

The sensei is known as Chabashira Sae and she's the homeroom teacher for class D. She hands out the school rule book and has explained the rule is restricted to be outside the school campus but it's filled with entertainment and a variety of facilities. Instead of using yen, the school uses points.

100,000 points. 1 point is 1 yen. I hear gasp and disbelief at their points. The points will be given every month on the first day. However, the school judges based on the students' merits.

Merits huh? 100,000 points. Too generous.

[Convenience store]

After the basics are done. I head out to the nearest convenience store. I have put the necessary items such as shampoo and deodorant. Basic things into my basket however it seems cheap. A boy approached me.

"Hello. Ayanokouji-Kun." I look at him, holding my basket that's on my lower arm. "Hello... Uh. Akiyama-san." I grab one more item I need to grab into the basket. "You seem to be buying cheap items. With the 100,000 points, you could buy something more expensive." He pulls up an item off the shelf.

My facial expression remained the same although I show a small smile. "I would keep my money in the budget. Thank you for the offer, Ayanokouji-Kun." He's mysterious. But I shouldn't pry into his life. He didn't bother opening up his hobbies like the other students.

But then again, it's making me curious. Is this a feeling of greed? An urge to break that mask? I walk up to the cashier and put my basket on the counter. "What you say to me?!" I heard ruckus as I look at the source.

The same delinquent was yelling at the seniors. "Oh, he's from our class." He said and I look at him. "Should you help then? After all, it would be a waste of breath to intervene.." Looking at the delinquent who kicks the trash can. I follow Ayanokouji as we walk out. Looking at the mess.

Looks like he noticed the cameras. He was about to go and pick up the trashcan but I stopped him. He seems confused. "Let me clean it up," I said and walk over to the dumped trash can. I pick it up, putting it back where it was but there's gonna be some dirt on my hand that I used to pick it up. I look at him. "I didn't want to get your hands dirty just because of garbage. But, you seem to have noticed." He nods in agreement.

"I hope we talk more often, Ayanokouji-Kun. I shall see you tomorrow in class." I wave at him as I walk past him, heading to the dormitory.

Ayanokouji POV

Akiyama Miyako. She has the same features as me such as facial shape, the eye shape. Brown hair and brown eyes. Although she seems a bit different to me. She's a bit shorter. Her face isn't "boring". She doesn't seem to have trouble socializing. Her smile reminds me of some memory, it's distant.

Our classmates kept asking her questions as she was similar to me. Of course, she seems confused. But our identities and similar surnames. Is she also hiding something?

She seems interested in me. Is she trying to find my past? Should I consider her an enemy? Or a tool that I can easily manipulate.

I started to walk towards the dormitory. This school judges students by merit. So, cameras and the 100,000 points.

—————
Chapter one - episode one part one: Types of humanity
To be continued.

Author: heyo. Welcome to my new fanfic. I was obsessed with COTE since season two has been announced. I hope I was playing certain characters right. I try to be original but oh jee, episode one is hard to change.

Of course, I only read some of the LN but I will follow the anime for now. This is an fanfic coming from the person who watches the anime. So this book may be anime watcher only. I plan on reading LN books but for now, I follow the anime.

So Miyako. She's the younger sister of Ayanokouji. So why does she have her surname faked? Who knows? I may write about her story later. The difference between them is that Miyako has some social skills and she's only 50% weaker. Yes, Ayanokouji still is stronger than her. So if they were to get into a fight, yeah he would win.

Give me your opinion about Miyako. I am open up to suggestions for her personality

March 21, 2022
Words: 1858

Chapter two: Acquaintances

Friendship. The easiest way to be away from the tough life. You can be popular among girls and boys. Be charming. You just have to be friendly and beautiful to get what you want.

You have the freedom to befriend anybody.. . But the question is how long till you will receive a "friend"? Can you rush the process of befriending?

April 25th (three weeks after the entrance ceremony)

Akiyama POV

It's now day twenty-four. Groups are already forming within the class. Is it bad that I'm not in any of them? Probably. "You're pitiful." I'm not surprised if there's going to be tension between Ayanokouji and that girl.

I turn to look at them. That's a sad sandwich. "You're alone too." I look at Ayanokouji that we saying the same words at the same time. The girl there doesn't seem to mind although it shows she's getting annoyed. "Yes. It's because I like being alone. You should mind your own business." She said, taking a bite of her sad sandwich.

Ayanokouji stood out of his seat and walks to the classroom door, he seems to be going somewhere. Since school session still going on and it's lunch period. I would assume he's going to the cafeteria. I turn away my attention back to the girl. "Since we are sitting close, I was wondering if I could get your name." She continues to ignore me and still eating her sad sandwich.

"We're going be classmates for 3 years and you're sitting close to me so it would be unsettling not knowing someone's name. Do I call you they, them? A nobody?" She looks at me, oops. I may have spoken too much.

"Horikita Suzune." She goes back to eating her sandwich. Is she related to the student council president? Maybe I should try to get to know her. "So, why do you want to be alone?" She continues to not look at me. "You don't seem very good at interacting with people. You sure have a talent of making someone very irritated by your words." Ow. At least I don't have the level of lousy social skills.

"I'm sorry about that. Although you don't seem to be much better yourself. You're better at pushing people away." I rest my chin on my left hand. "Yes. I want it like that. I don't need friends. Got a problem with that?" Good job Miyako, you ended up making her more irritated.

"Nothing. Thank you for talking with me though. Horikita-San." I turn my head back to face the front of the classroom. I can still hear people chatting about spending their points like it's nothing. They're going to get it back anyway after this month has passed. After lunch period, it is now class time. I look around the classroom. Is it strange that the teacher isn't going up to them and confronting them? There's like most people on their cellphones, talking in class, sleeping, tardiness, absence. Is this a school that will give its students 100% employment and college?

The bell rung. "That is all. Please review as your quiz is coming up by the end of this week." Chabashira-Sensei says as she leaves the class. I was putting my pencil and my notebook into my school bag. "It's strange but yet this school seems to be indulgent." I look at Horikita. "The teacher doesn't even confront the students that are sleeping or using their cellphone." I turned back to zip my bag then turn to look at Horikita.

"A school that has a 100% guarantee of success in life but our classmates be slacking off? I can say their successful life has gone down to 5% chance they will take it seriously." I explain my point of view about the situation of students doing whatever they want. Ayanokouji seems to be listening to our conversation, maybe I should invite him in. Since he seems to be a loner of some sort unlike Horikita, he doesn't push people away. "What do you think, Ayanokouji-Kun?" He blinks looking at me then looks at Horikita.

"Maybe they are trying to encourage students' autonomy." Seems reasonable but yet it seems weird for this school run by the government to let the students go wild with their 100,000 points and let them do whatever they want in class. "Hey. If you both are going to go out, can you come with me?" Wait, what? A guy like him asked for horikita and I come with him? "May I ask why?" I ask since Horikita seems to wonder the same.

"Does an invitation from me just seem like an ulterior motive?" His voice sounds monotone as ever. Although he may be right, he didn't seem like he's not going to do anything weird. "If you tell me what is the invite about then I'll consider it," Horikita said, I stayed silent so I can think about my choice of going with him or not.

"You know that cafe that's in the mall right? The one where all the girls hang out. I want to go there." Does he want to go to a cafe? For what? I continue listening to their conversation.

"May I ask why me or Akiyama? In fact why both of us?" Horikita is right. Why would Ayanokouji want to invite both me and Horikita to a cafe? This may be planned by somebody. People who want to invite us.

"That place seems to be a "no boys allowed" zone. It may also be uncomfortable for me since it would be that I'm the only guy." Horikita looks at me. "You're going with her." She pointed at me. I remain to just have the same facial expression as Ayanokouji. But, as usual, Horikita would deny an invite. "I'm not brave enough. With you two, I can hide behind you." Is he that scared to go into a cafe full of girls?

Well, he's a bit tall for our height but he can just be those stereotype gentleman who carries all the shopping bags that girls spend money on. "Fine. Let's go." I walk to the classroom door, waiting for them.

[The copyright version of Starbucks cafe]

The three of us walk inside as the automatic door closes behind us. "It's quite crowded," Horikita said as I look at my surroundings. "And you were right about being surrounded by girls." At first, I thought Ayanokouji was joking about the feeling of a no-boys zone. If I were him, I would be uncomfortable if I walk here.

"It's your first time here too? Oh, right I forgot Horikita-san is a loner and Akiyama-san is also a loner." I felt like I got stabbed in the heart. I just have trouble time trying to find ways to communicate with the people in our class... I just don't wanna surrounded and cause attention due to someone that I'm hanging out with.

"Was that supposed to be a dig? You child." You can't blame him on that statement, Horikita cause technically it is true. Ayanokouji found an available table and we followed him. Ayanokouji went to go get Horikita and my drinks. Horikita and I took a seat and stare at each other for 1-2 mins. Ayanokouji came back with two coffee cups and set them down, sitting next to me. We continue to just stare for 5 more seconds. To break the silence, Ayanokouji decided to speak first. "You know, if one of you decided to go with me instead of both of you, people would look at us as a cou-" he got dead looks from Horikita. What a good way to start the conversation.

"Yeah, probably not." Yep, he suddenly stopped at what he said. His head turns to the left, seeing other girls talking. Probably just feeling nervous since he's the only boy here surrounded by girls. Horikita took a sip of her coffee. Then I heard someone's obvious voice. "Horikita-San! Akiyama-San!" Please don't get me into your group that may be the entire class D. Please. Can I just enjoy my quiet freedom? Just me as a white bird that is soaring the skies without disruption...

Horikita looks at the girl who approaches our table. Yeah her face isn't happy to see her. "What a coincidence!" She turns to look at Ayanokouji and me. "Oh! You are here too! Ayanokouji-Kun and Akiyama-san!" She pulls a seat, sitting next to Horikita. "Do you three come here often?" What do you think? No. This cafe is crowded. There are a lot of girls here which I know Ayanokouji wouldn't come here often and Horikita just.. Horikita. I just want to go back to my dorm and read my book.

"No, it is our first time," I answered the question. Kikuyu still has that "smile" on her face. Usually, she would be able to hide it but Horikita is here. It's like she's trying to conceal her emotion of some sort. "Oh, I see! I'm here al-" Horikita interrupts, standing up. "I'm leaving."

"But Horikita-san. We just got here." I try to reason with her to stay. From what I know, Kushida is a stubborn person. She's willing to befriend everybody. And I mean everybody.

Horikita had her hand on her left hip. The usual pose of total control. You know, body language can mean anything. If that even makes sense...

"If Kushida-san is here then Ayanokouji-Kun doesn't need me anymore, right?" Well yeah, but still I rather not have this girl be nagging you to be friends. I'm already annoyed by her presence. Yeah, we need friends in our life but you don't have to befriend everybody.

"Kushida-san and I are just classmates." Looks like he's trying to defend himself. Although, after we went inside. I spotted some of our classmates here. So why would Kushida choose our table? "I don't like this. What's your move now, Kushida-san?" Looks like Horikita trying to confront her. "W-What? It's just a coincidence." The facial expression and the tone of her voice. It's a lie.

"The girls who are sitting here and the other two that are sitting next table over. They are all from class D. It's just a mere coincidence?" For a loner, she sure is observant.

"I'm impressed you were able to recognize them. I didn't even notice." Horikita looks at him. "All three of us have arrived in this cafe after class has ended. Some of the students arrived a few minutes early. Too soon for them to leave." Well, congrats. Maybe I should announce it and take the blame?

"Um.." Kushida has given up, great. I glance to look at Ayanokouji's face. Yeah, he's a part of it, the plan to try and get me and Horikita to befriend Kushida.

I took a sip of my coffee and set it down on the table. "It's a plan. We set it up just for us to be friends. I'm sorry." I said looking at Horikita, trying to sound sincere with that apology. "I thought so." she fell for it. Kushida stood out of her seat. "Horikita-San! Please be my friend!" Those eyes sure are desperate to be friends. She can pull a great act. "I want you to leave me alone." As expected of her response. She is the person who doesn't want to be friends...

"I'm not going to bother the class." Bother the class? What does that mean? I continue to listen to their conversation while sipping some of my coffee. "Eh? But you'll be lonely by yourself..." The tone of disappointment. What could you expect from Horikita? It's stated she doesn't want any friends.

"I never felt lonely by myself. Every word that comes out of your mouth disgusts me. You're wasting time on me. Why don't you go bother Akiyama-San?" Don't drag me into this.

Ayanokouji looks at them. "Hey, do you think it's a good decision? We are going to be in the same class for 3 years. If your not friends with anybody, you'll be alone for three years." Horikita grabs her bag, walking away. "I have been alone for nine years. If you count kindergarten then it's 10 years." She walks away from the table, leaving her sad lonely coffee on the table with the words 'Thank you! :)'

"Sorry. I might have made Horikita-san hate you now." I stood up. "It's fine. I should get going now. Ayanokouji-Kun. Do you want to walk with me to the dormitory?" I ask while holding my coffee cup. He nods and I turn to look at Kushida. "Thank you for trying to use your time to chat with me. I appreciate it." I bow my head as a goodbye. Ayanokouji stood up as we both walk out of the cafe.

[outside on the sidewalks to the dormitory]

'Every word that comes out of your mouth disgusts me.'

So my hunch is right. Kushida is hiding something. She's acting but for what?

Ayanokouji and I walk together in silence. I sigh as I don't want for us to just be acquaintances. After all, I have a particular goal. To find out Ayanokouji Kiyotaka's secret. He sure is wearing a mask too but unlike Kushida. He's hiding a darker secret. It's making me want to just say it.

"100,000 points. This school is generous yet excessive. They sure love trying to get students to expose their greed on the amount of money." Ayanokouji looks at me. "Yes. The amount of it seems excessive." Oh, this is an awkward conversation. "Do you have any ideas of why?" I ask and he shrugs. "I don't know." Is he acting like he doesn't know? Or he doesn't know why.

Why am I so cautious around him?

Maybe I should talk about something else other than school. "I know if I suddenly switch topics but when is your birthday, Ayanokouji-Kun?" He seems a little bit confused about why I would ask him about his birthday.

"October 20." Wait, did I hear that correctly? "Oh. Guess we have the same birthday." Ayanokouji looked at me, I saw a bit of his facial expression change but I couldn't recognize what emotion it was. "I'm sure it was a mere coincidence we have the same birthday in the same year. Same age too." Yeah, it has to be a coincidence. Right?

"That's unexpected that I would have somebody share the same birthday and year." He said as I walk in front of him. "Hmm.." I try to observe his facial expression but it remains to be stoic. "I'm sorry if I am too close to you:" I step away to give him space. "It's alright." Whew. I hope he isn't weirded out by it.

I look at the building. Looks like we just arrived. My room is only one floor above his. We both walk into the elevator. We just stood there in silence. "Akiyama-san. Do you wanna hang out tomorrow?" Another request? I look at him. "Is it another Kushida plan or yours?" He shakes his head. "No. It isn't." I sigh. I'm just exhausted from all these social events.

"Alright." I accepted his invitation. We stopped on his floor, I gave him a small wave.

The elevator doors close. Leaving me to just go into my thoughts. "..."

~~~~~~~

It was white, so bright. I was sitting on a desk, wearing a white dress and no shoes. I was always separated and into another area of children. Unlike the other children in that room, the professor would address me by my first name.

"Miyako." My eyes look at him while I had my right hand on the pencil. "Remember this, to have great power and refuse it to your advantage. Only a fool would do."

~~~~~~~

I wonder if my freedom could find the piece I was missing for all my life...

—————

Chapter two - episode one part two: Acquaintances

To be continued.

Author: thank you for all your suggestions on Miyako 's personality! I have decided for her to be an ambivert. Her personality would be a little similar to Ayanokouji but she's a little bit outgoing yet quiet.

I have read your comments that some of you would like kiyo x Miyako. I have taken into consideration and I have decided to say no. I'm sorry but it feels weird for me to ship a character who is also related to them by blood. It just feels wrong. Super sorry for sibling x sibling people.

You can leave your comments below on who Miyako should be shipped with though. Also , I would like to ask for more suggestions on how Ayanokouji can like have conversations with her so he can have more clues that he had a "sibling".

Oh and here's the drawing of her. Please don't mind my horrible art skills. ;;

March 22, 2022

Words: 2822

Chapter three: Get to know you more

(Beware. This chapter may be out of character. ••)

A day like this is relaxing. There is no need to use deception. No drama or anything that could ruin the moment.

Anything could happen though. It could be good or bad.

April 26
Miyako POV

It is another day. I got off of my bed and started to do my usual routine in the morning. Class is going to start within 20 mins so maybe I have some time to try and cook. Even though I never had a good cooking experience. Oh, wait. I didn't even bother trying to buy ingredients.

"That's a shame," I mumble and I grab my school uniform, I change out of my pajamas and into the uniform. "I should probably head out." I walk to my door and opened it. The first thing I saw was Ayanokouji standing in front of my door. "Oh. Good morning Ayanokouji-Kun." So is this what he means by hanging out? Does he want to hang out the entire school day?

Oh well, it wouldn't hurt.

"Good morning Akiyama-san. Do you wanna walk to school with me?" I do remember your comment yesterday in the cafe about the concept of us being together. Is it normal for Boys like him to ship themselves with other girls?

"Oh, sure why not?" Suddenly Ayanokouji walks up to me super close. "T-too close. Jee he's tall.." is it bad my mind is racing? I'm only just 162 cm. Ayanokouji looks at my blue bow tie and adjusts it. "It was loose." Did he just.. Fix my uniform?

Ayanokouji steps back away from my personal space. "Thank you for fixing it. I have not realized my mistake." I express my gratitude to him and he looks at me. "Your welcome." Ah jee. His social skills sure are lacking, should I just stare at him for 5 mins with awkward silence?

"Should we head off now?" I started walking away from him.

I stopped at the elevator and got inside. "So, did you get to have some breakfast?" He gestured a no. "Do you want to get some before we head to class?" Ayanokouji looks at me. "No, but thank you for the offer." The elevator has a stop and is on the lobby floor. We walk out together, heading outside as we were walking side by side. Yep, I can hear rumors now. We aren't dating or related. Although, we both have similar characteristics.

And now insert awkward silence between us since I don't even know how to start a conversation with him...

This is going to be a weird day.

[Classroom 1-D]

We went inside our classroom and sat on our assigned seats. The quiz is coming up so I should probably be studying. Though I wonder how I'm going to be doing on this test. I turn around to face Ayanokouji since his assigned seat is behind me. "So, Ayanokouji-Kun. How do you feel about the quiz that's going to come up by the end of this week?" He blinks. Is my response a bit suspicious to him or something?

"I feel normal about it. I'll try to work hard to do well." I lean against my chin with my left hand. "I hope we all do well then." I gave a small smile. "Although I doubt it for all the others here who are chatting and having the time of their lives. How about you Horikita-san?" She's still reading that book and ignores me.

"Silence is a valid option but it's alright if you don't wanna talk to me." Guess she's still mad that I set up the plan to have her meet with Kushida. Even though I wasn't a part of it. My eyes turn to look at Ayanokouji. "So after morning class, do you want to head out to the cafeteria? I'll pay for the meal if you want anything." Unlike our classmates who didn't spend all their points down the drain, I manage to save up. My points were on 81,342 so I haven't spent much on this month.

"Sure." As usual, his voice never breaks out of that mask. Apathetic. From what I heard, boys would get flustered and try their best to win a girl's heart. Especially an invite to the cafeteria be like a date. That's not what I'm seeing for Ayanokouji. Maybe I put too much thought into stereotypes. Boys can be anybody and they can be whatever they wanna be.

"Take your seats." Our classmates who were standing and talking with their friends went to their seats. As usual, Chabashira-sensei would take attendance. But there's always gonna be that one student who would just barge in, apologizing their late or just not showing up at all. Let's not forget the class lectures. Students are talking in class, people with their phones out even sleeping.

Makes me wonder how next month is going to turn out since this school judges us by merit. I think anyone who's breaking standard class rules must've forgotten that and the definition of it.

[ class morning period has ended]
After several hours have gone by, it is now lunch period. "You wanna head to the cafeteria now?" I ask and he simply nods. "Alright then. Horikita-San. Do you wanna join-"

"No." Horikita unwraps her food, it's the same thing as she had yesterday. But it is expected for her sudden response since she wants to be alone for 3 years. I don't even know why I'm even trying. I head out to the cafeteria along with Ayanokouji who's walking with me.

Walking into the cafeteria, I wasn't expecting to have fewer people. Like 2-4 tables are open and nobody sitting there. "Oh. It is less crowded than the one in the cafeteria. I guess some of the students here want to eat out?" Looking around the place, I found the lunch lady who's serving free meals, and the other is the meals that have points to be spent on.

I approach the counter, looking at the food. The free food looks like plain boring food like it's been frozen and preheated. While the meals that can be spent with points is restaurant quality.

"Alright, Ayanokouji-Kun. What do you want to eat?" I pull out my phone from my pocket so I can be ready to pay for the meal. He seems to be looking at the menu of what to get. I wait for him to choose what he wants to get.

"Special premium set." I look at it to see tempura shrimp with some sort of half-cut fried fish with the tail still attached and steak along with rice and yogurt on the side. "A h." Premium set with 3,520 points. At least he didn't get anything involving wagyu. "Then I'll just get Omelette rice." Which was 1,456 since it wasn't that in any of the premium special sets.

Looking at the prices, It seems the total is 4,956 points to be spent. I hover my phone on the pay item and it scans, accepting payment.

I checked my phone to see 81,432 points went down to 76,476 points. After waiting for a bit, we have received our food. I look around at the cafeteria for a place to sit. There's an area that's close to the windows. Ayanokouji and I took our food trays to the table and took a seat. Yep, I'm not sitting across from him. Just sitting close to him cause what if people want to sit with us and I'm just taking up space?

I don't wanna have an awkward conversation with them. Especially on the first day of April, the seniors seem to be mocking class D students. So who knows there might be more students like them.

We clapped our hands together on the food.

"Thank you for the food, I guess."
"Thank you for the food."

I grab my spoon as I started to eat the omelet rice. "Hey, is it alright for you to spend that much amount of points on me?" Was he looking at my phone?

I swallowed up the food I was eating. Cause you know, you can't talk while eating something. "I'm alright with it. Besides I'm not under 30,000 points so I'm fine with paying your tab. You don't have to repay me." I resume eating the omelet rice. Yep too good...

I look over at Ayanokouji's meal. The smell makes me just wanna go buy the same meal that he has but I resist the urge. Never knew food can cause me to be greedy. He took the tempura shrimp first and starts to eat.

I swallow up the food I was eating. "Do you have any hobbies you like? Since your class introduction on the first day went downhill." What a good way to start a conversation Miyako...

It's just the basics of getting to know him so what could go wrong?

"I don't have any particular ones." He resumes eating his food. At least he's enjoying the food I bought for him. "You seem like a person who is one step ahead. It's like chess where your the king controlling your pawns." He stops eating for a moment, looking at it with his dull eyes. Why do I feel like I suddenly need to change the subject?

"I'm just saying you could be a good opponent for chess," I said as I continue to finish up my meal. He continues to look at me though. Did I say something wrong? "What is it?" He blinks but goes back to eating his meal. "Hey, Ayanokouji-Kun. Do you have any relatives or some sort?" Yes Miyako, ask the question that everyone keeps asking you that same topic.

"No. I wasn't allowed to visit them so I don't know if I do have relatives." Only his family huh?..

Should I try to ask more questions about himself? I feel like I'm going way overboard. "What about you? Do you have any relatives?" He asks me the same questions.

"Hm... To be honest, I don't know. I wasn't allowed to see any relatives either. All I have is a father. Although, we don't get along. A lot." That's when I realize I spoke a bit too much about my "life". Am I getting too comfortable here?

"Oh. I see." He goes back to eating. Looks like he's finishing it up though. I feel like I could trust him. But at the same time, I don't. He just gives this presence to someone I'm familiar with. "Is it alright if I can call you by your first name?"

He looks back at me. "Why?" Yep. Think of a reason Miyako...

"It's because uh... We're getting to know each other pretty well and I want to call you my first official friend. You seem like an amazing guy to be around with, Ayanokouji-Kun." And to be added, mysterious that I have the urge to find out that mask of yours.

"Oh. I see. It is alright with me." His answer made me crack a small smile again. I rarely express these types of emotions since it's that room that makes me "not" to show them. But it looks like I'm now getting used to smiling. That man isn't here to order me to do whatever he wants.

I'll find my answers while I'm enjoying freedom.

"Alright. Thank you Kiyotaka. Can I just call you Kiyo for short?" He gestures a nod. "Okie Kiyo-Kun. I'll see you in class. Hope you enjoy your meal." I gave him a piece of paper with my contact number and email. I stood out of my seat, pushing it back to the table.

I walk away from him, heading back to class.

That felt strangely nostalgic for some reason...

[May 1st]

6 days have passed. I was sitting on my chair and looking at my phone. There was no points gain. Everyone is distraught or just thinking they're crazy that they didn't receive their points. Except for Ayanokouji and Horikita. "Take your seats. Morning homeroom will now begin." Chabashira-sensei walks in and acts like nothing is happening with a roll of paper.

"Sensei!" a guy with brownish hair and light brown raises his hand. "We didn't get our message points! We're supposed to get them on the first day of the month, right?" Oh, how stupid this guy is, or anybody who spent their points down the drain without realizing.

Chabashira-sensei folded her arms. "No, this month's points have already been allotted. There are no mistakes that this class was overlooked." Another student brings up another word about points. "But we didn't get any points!" Suddenly some of the classmates started to agree with that statement.

I look around the class and then I look back at Chabashira-Sensei. Her face turns to just a smirk. "What a bunch of idiots you are." The students were in shock. "A convinced total of 98 tarries and absences. 391 instances of talking and cell phone usage in class. Quite a month's work. At this school, your grades and performance evaluations are reflected in the monthly points you've given." As expected, the 100,000 points weren't just out of generously. You have to earn them at some point.

"My assessment to you is that all your 100,000 points are lost. Now the answer that everyone has been wanting to ask is the number of points. The points you are getting this month? Are zero ." Everyone is now in disbelief, now just scared of how to live without any money. "I-I have to live without any money? Nobody told us this."

"Did you think that mere high school students were going to be given 100,000 yen a month to spend without a single catch? That's absurd. Use common sense." She is right about it. She did say this school judges on your merit at the beginning of the school year.

The definition of merit is literally "the quality of being particularly good or worthy, especially to deserve praise or reward." Did anybody in this school forget the meaning of the word?

There are also cameras around the school even ones that are hidden around this classroom. They will watch everything you do unless you are out of the camera's sight.

"You're garbage. All of you are worth nothing. You don't even deserve that amount of points. You are in class 1-D for a reason. D for defective. That's what all of you are."

Hmm, no wonder why the seniors were mocking some of our classmates.

Now then, I wonder how this entire situation will unfold about students being broke now this month...

—————

Chapter three - episode one part three: Get to know you more

To be continued.

Author: Did I upload three chapters within a week? Yes I did. Hopefully you like this chapter. I'm sorry if it's been out of character but I couldn't just find a way to have Miyako have a day with Ayanokouji-Kun. But At least I can call him by his first name now.

That is all~ the next chapter will be episode two.

March 23, 2022

Words: 2535

Chapter four: Things turn upside down

Humanity usually needs somebody in their life. You can't be a loner forever. The world will always want you to go out of your circle and meet new people. Become acquaintances, earn friends to aid your life in becoming successful.

You just can't escape society. Answer this question how long till you realize you need to have somebody to help you? You can't always be independent forever.

[May 1st]
Miyako's POV

"Look at this. This is the S-system. It assesses the students in real-time and assigns them numerical values. These are all the classes and as you see, your class is in the last place. You deserve it to be there." Everyone's face is still distraught, angry by the fact that they didn't know about this.

All class ranks in the S system show
Class A: 940 points
Class B: 650 points
Class C: 490

And our class...
0 points

Chabashira-Sensei claps her hands. "I'm impressed, however. This class is the only class this year that has spent all of their points." Hirata stood out of his seat. "Sensei! At least tell us the criteria on how points are gained and lost." Chabashira-Sensei remains to have that confident posture with that smirk of hers. "It's like the real world outside of this school. I cannot disclose that information. Besides I can't reveal the details of your performance." She turns back to write more information about school points.

"Each class here has each class point, 100 private points are assigned to each student in the class. When you first arrived here, each class had 1,000 class points. In other words, you defectives just lost it all." Her glare was menacing. Stern, was annoyed by our class's performance.

But of course, there's always a solution to this problem. Chabashira-Sensei explains that we can get more points and if our points are higher than class C. Then we get promoted to class C while Class C is demoted to D.

"Your soonest opportunity will be the upcoming midterms. Depending on the score. We may be granted as many as 100 class points." I hear some whispers, are they going to try and give themselves points? Is it because of educational reasons or just greed so they can spend more points?

"However. These are the results of the most recent quiz." The paper roll was shown on the board. Most of them were horrible results of the recent test. "Starting now. Anyone who receives a failing score on their midterms or finals will be heading straight to class E. Expulsion." Now I can see why this school is a guarantee 100% employee rate and college classes.

However, looking at the poster of all of the students' results. Some students had decent scores, others just went trash and don't give a crap. But something caught my eye. Besides me, there's one particular student.

Kiyotaka has all his test scores that are in the 50s on each subject. 50/100. There's no way that he was doing the same thing as me. The difference is that I got an 80 on every subject. 80/100. I can assume 50/100 means the average score. But for me, the reason I wanted to score 80. It's just because the missing 20 points is to try and be average to others but just a means that I am missing two major things in my life. And I don't know what they are.

[Swim class]

I was sitting with Kiyotaka since I don't technically have any people to interact with. I stare at the other people having the time of their lives. Is this how people try to cope with the stress of what recently happened?

"So, what's on your mind Kiyo-Kun?" I lean my head against my knees. "Brooding the situation." He answers and looks back at the girls who are just splashing water at each other. "About what? The S-system or you didn't have any friends to be with? Since you were alone while I was just standing in the water and don't know what to do." And to be added with me being hit with water nonstop to the face by Kushida.

Kiyotaka is silent after what I said. "Kiyo-kun, it's alright if you don't consider yourself to not have a friend. To be honest I simply ask for you to be one. So does it count to having a true friend? I don't know." What is a friend? I know they are supposed to be people who support you and just be there like activities and such. But how do I earn one? I know I couldn't just straight up ask to be my friend.

Although I'm a bit relieved that Kiyotaka is willing to let me be friends with him. Even letting me use his first name.

Horikita approaches us. "So what are you two brooding about?" With her hand on her left hip. "Oh hello, Horikita-San. Kiyo-Kun and I were just immersed in the struggle with ourselves. Although kiyo-Kun just seems to be struggling a lot more." I point at him.

"Does it show I'm struggling much to make friends?" He asks as I immediately gesture a nod. "Oh." Horikita sat down but only a few distances away from us.

Is it funny that I'm also like three inches away from him? "How can they be so carefree after what just happened?" She asks Kiyotaka that question. "You don't think they're trying to take their mind off of it?" Horikita looked at him then look back at the girls who were splashing water at each other. "Perhaps so." She said as I was just a person who isn't there in their conversation.

"Well, the swimming pool just opens in the spring. Technically since we are first years, don't you think our classmates are going to go little nuts without caring about what happens around them?" I said as I keep looking at the other students. Some are just sitting in the bleachers, some are just sitting on the window, some just having fun.

"They're like little children but I can't spite them for it either." You sure act like not a child yourself with the all-loner type...

"In the eyes of the S-system, they're the worst kind of defectives." So she wants to talk about the S-system? "That includes you, right?" Kiyotaka asks, for once. She agrees with his comment.

"So, the S-system. With the current information we have at the moment, there are solutions for our class to be promoted to C." I explain the current situation. Well, At least I try to be in their conversation. "Although it depends on each student who is willing to participate." Such as Sato who is a redhead and always let his emotions go wild.

"If we want to have a few class points then each person in the class will have to change their habits and try to get high marks on their midterms," Kiyotaka adds another to my explanation. Horikita agrees with us.

"To achieve the blessing of this school high percentage of outstanding college advancement and employment rate we all dreamed about when we came here." Kinda funny how my dream is just to find two pieces that I felt are missing in my life.

Honestly though, what if I wasn't in that room. Would my life be different?

"We need to overtake class C. As long as we're in class D, our hopes of advance are out of reach." Horikita said with full determination to get to Class C. However I doubt we can get there with just midterms...

She sure sounds like that teacher who is just irritated at us for having 0 points in our classes. "Was that an imitation of Chabashira-Sensei?" Kiyotaka asks and Horikita looks at him. "No." She denies that she was imitating her. "You sure? It sounds like you were just a moment ago." She looks at me. "I said it's a no. It wasn't even accurate to her words." Well, maybe a little.

"Wait, Ayanokouji-Kun and Akiyama-San. Do you play any sports?" Huh? Why did she ask that question? "No. I don't. I'm just not a person who can join other people and I think I would be a downfall to the club." I answer while Kiyotaka's response was a bit suspicious to me.

"No. I'm not proud of it, but I was club-free in middle school." Club-free in middle school? Yet Horikita's sudden question got me to look at Kiyotaka. Yeah, he has muscles but he doesn't play any sports? Does he work out before he went to this school? If so why would he wanna work out? Self-defense or something?

"Still though. the development of your forearms and.." wait why are you observing our arms? That's a bit uncomfortable.

However, Kiyotaka and I didn't hear what Horikita is going to say cause she got interrupted by Kushida. "Hey hey, Horikita-San! Wanna swim with us?" She got out of the pool requesting her to join them.

I'm gonna predict what she's going to say in 3, 2, 1.

"No thank you." As expected, I continue to observe her behavior. She looks away and her face still seems like she's irritated at something. Is she still mad over the plan? Get over with it.

"Horikita-San, are you not good at swimming?" Making assumptions huh, Kushida? "I neither excel nor fail at it." I never knew swimming can make you be a perfectionist.

"Back in middle school, I was simply awful at swimming but I practiced hard and now I can do it just fine," Kushida said remaining to have that smile on her face. Lady, can't you see your efforts are not working?

You know Horikita before and she ain't happy to be around with you. So don't even try to make it worst. "If the person doesn't want to swim then that's fine. You don't have to insist on them." I spoke up as Kushida looks at me. "But it could be fun! Playing with us in the water, how about you join us?" I was in the water just minutes ago and you couldn't stop splashing water at me. I was more irritated than having more fun. But I didn't show much of my emotion since my face is just a calm expression 24/7.

"No. Thank you for the offer but I got myself out of the pool 4 minutes ago." I said and I look away from her. "I'm leaving." Horikita stood up from the ground and walks away from Kiyotaka and me.

Kushida got out of the pool and approached us. "It's a shame that we couldn't be much of a help... I tried to befriend her multiple ways but she just keeps refusing to be one." She had her hand touching her other arm looking a bit sad. She's mostly talking with Kiyotaka. "She's unapproachable isn't she?" He asks as I agree. "It's easy to predict her response since she is just refusing any offer or invite from other people." Kushida looks at me. "I wish we got along better." Good luck with then.

"Attention everyone. I want you to listen to me seriously for a minute." I look over at the source of the voice. It was Hirata. I stood up, approaching them a little closer so I can hear them. Kiyotaka was beside me along with Kushida. "Everyone didn't get their points. This is a problem that's going to haunt us through the rest of our time here at school. There's no way we can make it to graduation with zero points." The excellent statement is there to convince everyone to change their habits.

"We can't let that happen!" The girl with blond hair said with full confidence. "You said it," Hirata said with a smile. He is a perfect candidate for a school leader...

"That's why we need to make sure we get some points next month." The red hair dude is annoyed by this. "You can do whatever the hell you want. Just leave me out of it." He pushes Hirata aside and walks away from the crowd. Everyone had some small gasps, Kiyotaka and I remain calm in this situation. Does everyone react in minor actions?

[Classroom 1-D]

I was sitting at my assigned desk, staring into space. However, Someone raised their voice. I look at the source. "Doc! As your best friend, I have a favor to ask you! Please lend me 20,000 points for a game."

I turn around to hear another conversation sorts related. "Actually I spent too many points and now I'm totally broke." As expected, the classmates who are broke are now begging. What a shame...

I look back at the front to see Kiyotaka walking back to his seat. I wave at him and he looks at me, waving back. "Do you both have plans for lunch?" Both Kiyotaka and I look at Horikita, that is an unexpected answer coming from her.

"I was wondering if you both want to join me." She is holding her phone, is she looking at her points? "E h?" That's strange we both have the same reaction.

[Cafeteria]

Why do I feel like this is going to be bait? Why did I say yes? Knowing Horikita, I know if I just have this one bite of my food that's right in front of me then I may be expecting something...

What I got is just the same one as Kiyotaka had when he and I were eating in the cafeteria. I look at his dish and it's the same thing. Does he like that set now?

"Well, let's eat I guess."

"Thank you for the food."

Kiyotaka looks at Horikita. "You sure that Akiyama-San and I can put this on your tab? Especially since this is an expensive special lunch set." He asks since he's just unsure that Horikita is willing to spend her points with us. The reason why I got it is cause I'm just craving fried food at the moment.

"Yes. I did tell both of you to go get whatever you both wanted, after all. Are you sure you both are not related? You ordered the same meal and unsure about putting this on my tab." Here we go again with these sorts of questions.

"We aren't." I denied that question as I look at the food. It's urging me to eat it. But I can't. I must wait for what Horikita is going to say. This just feels like a trap. Kiyotaka was about to eat his tempura but stopped to look at Horikita. "What's wrong, Ayanokouji-Kun? Hurry up and eat." She turns her attention towards me. "And you too. Your food going to get cold. I can say fried foods can be disgusting when you let their temperature go down." Don't try to make my urge to eat this go worst.

"Uhm.. I'll just wait for him to eat it. I haven't tried it before so I'm just going to wait till he eats it." Miyako what was that reason?! Horkita's eyebrow twitch a bit, is she mad? Or suspicious?

"Right..." Kiyotaka starts eating his food and I had my chopsticks out just pretending to grab the tempura. "Now, I want you to hear me out." AND I KNEW IT!

I still try to pretend to grab the food like I'm having a struggle with handling chopsticks. "It seems Hirata-Kun and the others worked out their plan of action early today. They're going to hold a study group to prepare for the next test." When did she hear that information? When we were heading back from the pool?

"So what you saying is that they are going to hold a study group?" I ask while still trying to pick this up when it's an act. Kiyotaka looks at me while chewing his food down.

"Yes, but three classmates with especially poor scores have received used his invitation to join." The red angry bird and two others that I forgot their names. Even being in the same class for a month, I don't pay attention to those types of students.

"Sudo, right?" Kiyotaka asks as he eats the last piece of the tempura and goes for the fried half-piece fish. "As well as Yamauchi-Kun and Ike-Kun." Oh, so that's their names. "But judging by their behavior, they're not the people who are going to study. They're just people who wanna skip classes and not attend high school ever again." I said as I see my chopsticks down, giving up on it.

"They sure don't look like the studious type, I guess," Kiyotaka said as he looks at me. "Are you going to eat? It seems like you are having trouble." Kiyotaka asks as I stare at my food. "I'm fine~ my hands are a little off today." I lied as Kiyotaka stares at me. I blinked.

"I personally can't imagine how someone could fail a test." Ask the delinquent Horikita. "But the fact remains that there are hopeless students out there for whom failure is nearly inevitable." Like I said Horikita, ask the delinquent but I doubt it's gonna be a pacifist.

I look at Kiyotaka who just has the half-body fish eating it. I'm going to feel bad for him if Horikita's outcome is something we are gonna have to pay her back. "That's pretty cold to say in front of students who could be having difficulties with a certain subject, Horikita-San." Not all people have the best brains for their learning development. We all have some weak points.

Unlike me.

"I'm stating the truth, that is all." she glares at me. "If nothing changes. They're going to be someone that can make our class worst than it already is. Besides if we want our class to be promoted, it's vital that we not only avoid losing points but also gain them, right?" She looks at both of us as Kiyotaka is paying attention.

"You want to hold a study group then? To help Sudo, Ike, and Yamauchi?" Kiyotaka asks as Horikita agrees with his question. "Yes."

"Are you serious?" Kiyotaka asks and I sigh. "Kiyo-Kun is right. I doubt the study group is going to go well." She looks at me. "I'm dead serious. If I left them to their own devices they could damage Class D as a whole for their incompetence. If I really have been relegated to class D, then I will climb up to Class A." Did I hear that correctly? Not class C? She really wants to be a perfect student since class A is the highest one with points.

"Wait a minute." Perfect timing Kiyo. "Did you say class A? Not class C?" He ask as Horikita's eyes were filled with disgust and determination. "I find my assignment to class D utterly unacceptable." Isn't it because of your personality?

"So step one is to rehabilitate the failures?" Sure looks like it.

"It seems like we're talking about the plan on fixing those students?" I ask as Horikita had her eyes closed and didn't look at either of us.

"If you've grasped that, you can guess what I'm about to purpose." I'm going to throw my food at your face if you use me to be someone to help you.

"Please don't drag me into this."

"I don't want to be a part of this." We both said something similar at the same time then we look at each other.

"Ayanokouji-Kun, you ate it. Didn't you?" Yep. Knew it was bait. "You seem to be enjoying the luxurious special lunch set I treated you." Horikita looks at me. "And you somehow knew my motives and I set you up but you still put it on my tab." I only did it because you insisted on me.

For once I'm seeing Kiyotaka's facial expression of just having his mouth open. Probably shocked he got into a trap. "I still haven't forgiven you, Akiyama-san for conspiring with Kushida-san. Even taking me out on false premises." And you still haven't gotten over it? And I thought you would be smart that I wasn't the original maker that made that plan.

"If you want to square the debt between us then help me. Your job will be to round up those three and bring them to my study group." She said as a task for Kiyotaka.

I started eating my food since now I'm just tied up in this situation. Fried food tastes great. I started to just eat up since I was hungry the whole conversation with her.

"Good luck Kiyo-kun. Hope your social skills were improving during that 1 month." He looks at me. "That's foul play." He looks back at Horikita. "And what is Akiyama's role in this?" He ask as I had an urge to throw my food at him too.

"And your job is to talk with them if the plan goes wrong. Unlike Ayanokouji-Kun, you seem to be good at convincing people." Not really...

She pulls something from her pocket. A pink piece of paper scoots it over to Kiyotaka. "That's my cell phone number and email address. Contact me if you need anything." She stood up, walking away as I just enjoy my food in peace.

Kiyotaka looks at me while holding the piece of paper. "Don't look at me, I took the blame for it for the plan," I said while eating my food. He put Horikita's contacts on his phone. He gives me the piece of paper and I pull out my phone.

"Do I have to take part in this?" I ask as he shrugs. "You don't have to. But you got mixed up in this situation, I guess." I sigh and set down my chopsticks. I put Horikita's contacts in.

"Well, I'll see you back at class." I pick up my tray and stood up, walking away from him.

Now how is this plan going to go?

—————

Chapter four-episode two-part one: Things got turned upside down

To be continued.

Author: yay episode two. Four chapters within a week. I feel very motivated. Miyako starting to learn the feeling of being annoyed due to Horikita's behavior. Even learning of teasing kiyo. Miyako sure is starting to notice some "coincidences" between her and Kiyo.

I was wondering if the story is going well and you guys are enjoying it.

In the next chapter we will be on Ayanokouji's POV so expect OOC cause I don't know if I'm in character with him. I will try though ;

March 24, 2022

Words: 3807

Chapter five: Mere coincidence

[Beware, there may be OOC in this chapter.]

Coincidences are just luck as people say they could be. But it's getting more strange each time I encounter them. 'What do we say about coincidences?'

'The universe is rarely lazy' - Sherlock Holmes

But what if these so-called coincidences would be clues to someone's deception?

[May 1st]
Ayanokouji's POV

After Akiyama has left the table, I look at the paper. " So this is the second girl's phone number in my high school career. Akiyama-San did take the blame. I don't see the reason why she would but now she has to take the consequences to work with Horikita-San. I'm not happy about it but I'd better save it anyway."

[Classroom 1-D - after classes]

I kept staring at the piece of paper. "I guess I have to do it since I said I would.." okay let's do it.

I search around the school hallways to find Ike. Guess I should muster my energy to these conversations so I can try to convince them. "Hi. Do you wanna join Horikita-San's study group?" Simply straight forward.

Ike turns his head looking at me. "Nah." He walks away after denying the request. I guess I should find Yamauchi.

I manage to find him on a mid pathway of staircases. "Hello. Do you want to join Horikita-San's study group?" Yamauchi looks at me, thinking about his response. Is he going to say yes?

"Hmm. I can't make it." That's expected. Now to find the final person. I walk outside of the school to search for Sudo. "Oh, Sudo." I approach him as he looks at me, clearly agitative. "What?"

"Do you want to join Horikita-San's study group?" I'm keeping it straightforward. I was suddenly grabbed by the collar. "The hell did you say to me?!" Looks like I made him angry. "A study group," I answered as I remain unfazed by his aggressive behavior.

"Hell no. That's final. I don't care about this school so you guys can fail. Leave me out of it." He lets go of me and walks away.

[Dorm room]

"Knew it was hopeless." I sigh disappointedly at the results. "I'd better get help from someone they could get along with." I look at my phone. 20:02. "I wonder if she's up." I sat up from my bed, looking at the internal phone lines.

I got up and approach the phone line, dialing the phone number. "Yes. Could you put me through Kushida-San from class 1-D? It is something for class." They transported me to Kushida's line. The first thing I hear was something in the background. "Hello?" It was Kushida's voice.

"Hel- Uhm.. what's that sound I'm hearing?" Looks like she can hear me from the other side. "Oh, Ayanokouji-Kun?" She turns off whatever that sound was. "Can you hear me now? Sorry I was taking a shower but don't worry I got out. It was surprising for you to call me and it's my first time using internal phone lines."

"I was surprised too. Anyway, rejoice Kushida. You've been selected as a goodwill ambassador. For the sake of our class, please give it all you got." I said in the most dramatic way possible. If I even sounded like it. She sounds surprised on the other line.

I explain to Kushida about the study group and Horikita is the person hosting it. "Oh? A study group for Sudo-Kun and the others that Horikita-San is doing? Yeah sure. Besides, when a friend is in trouble, you have to be there for them so, of course, I can help." That was easy, I didn't expect her to obligate.

"You're under no obligation."

"Oh, nono; it's okay. It's pretty cruel that anyone who fails gets expelled. The thought of having to say goodbye like that after only just becoming friends.. wouldn't that be awful?"

"Yeah, I guess so," I respond to her reason.

"May I ask something one favor? Is it alright if I join the study group?"

"Sure I guess. Are you sure that's all you want?"

"Yeah! I want to study with everyone too.." but everyone besides those three will be studying with Hirata so why our group?

"Oh, I know! I'll give you my cell phone number."

That's another unexpected response. "Are you sure?" I ask

"Yeah! I mean, we're classmates after all. I'm sorry I couldn't give it to you when I had the chance before. So just call me anytime Oki?" The phone line ended as I look at it.

"Kushida's contact info.."

Now that's three girls on my contact list for my high school career...

Still not too thrilled about it.

I look over at my phone to see a text message. "Oh. That was quick.." I read over the messages that Kushida manage to convince all three of them to go. She is that popular with everybody?

Way to go...

I went over my email and typed out the email to Horikita.

"I got Kushida's help and the three of them agreed. It's okay if Kushida joins the study group, right?" I tap the send email.

My phone starts to ring as it was Horikita calling me. I was confused for a second cause I just sent it. I answered the phone. "Hel-"

"No." I heard from the other line as it ended immediately. Beep beep...

I tried to call her again and she picked it up. "at least hear me out" beep beep...

I got an email of Horikita's response with just no. "... maybe I should get Akiyama-san to call her." I went to my contacts and tapped Akiyama's contact info.

I heard the line got picked up. "Hello, Kiyo-Kun. I wasn't expecting a phone call like at 8 pm. What's up?"

"Oh, Akiyama-san. I asked Kushida for help and she managed to get all three of them to join us. I told Horikita about it but..."

"Let me guess, she said no?"

"Yeah. She's even sending me email responses." While on the phone with Akiyama, I'm just getting notifications of Horikita sending me another email.

"Okay, I'll try to call her. However, I will say 90% chance that she's going to deny my call."

Miyako's POV

I ended the line and look at my phone. I sat up from my bed and I went to my contacts then tap Horikita. The phone started to ring as the line was picked up.

"What?" I heard Horikita's voice.

"Oh. I didn't expect you to answer. Those three boys have accepted to join in the study group."

I heard a sigh from the other line. "You heard that from Ayanokouji-Kun, right?"

"Yeah. I was calling you to see if you are going to be there since Kushida-san is goin-" the line ended. Are you kidding me?

I tried to call her again and the line picked up. "I said no to Ayanokouji-kun and I'm going say the same thing." The line ended. "..." repeat the process Miyako. I tried to call her again. The line was picked up. "At least try to hear his reas-" and then the line ended.

I called her and now she let me speak for more than 10 seconds. "Kushida can get along with anyone so it's smart for him to ask her. Besides without her, the boys would-"

The line ended. I look at my phone and the email said "NO." I sigh and I typed out my response.

"You know you could have just sent a text. But whatever, you got what you wanted for your side. Just endure Kushida is there." I sent the email.

A response was sent from Horikita. "It's a NO." Guess I should call Kiyotaka that the plan was a fail.

Ayanokouji's POV
After I ended my call with Kushida, she said that she will figure out something. My phone start to ring and I look over to see it was Akiyama. I tap the green button to answer.

"Hello." I put my phone against my left ear.

I heard Akiyama's voice on the other line. "So, Kiyo. Guess what just happened."

I took a moment to respond. Judging by Akiyama's voice, she isn't too happy by the outcome. It's probably the same on her side.

"Did she say no?" I ask

"Yep, what did you expect from my side? Horikita will agree to the study group?" Akiyama sounds a bit sarcastic on that last comment.

"Probably. Since you seem to have Horikita-San compliment since your role is to handle anything if the study group goes wrong."

"My sociable skills aren't that terrific. Besides, that red angry bird might just yank my collar and yell at me." Wait red angry bird? Who's that? Oh, wait I think she meant Sudo.

Akiyama sighed as I heard something in the background but I ignored it. It wasn't that loud. "The plan flunked on my part. Did you tell Kushida-San about it?" She asked

"I have. She said she's going to try and think of something to join our study group. It's suspicious though. She said she wants to study with everybody but Hirata is hosting mostly the entire class with his study group." I express my suspicion of Kushida's persistence. Why does she want to hang out with us? Especially Horikita who is repulsed by her.

"Who knows? I thought you have caught up to some evidence about Kushida." Is she lying?

"Did you think I do know the reason for Kushida-San being persistent?"

"Your the guy who seems like it." Looks like she's still suspicious about me. Should I consider her an enemy or just another of my tools to manipulate?

Although whenever I'm around her, it feels like I've been playing mental chess with her nonstop. She's a person who's cunning, observant, quiet even mysterious. Something around her past just seems unnatural to me.

And her presence just seems oddly suspicious. She always gets questions such as we're related. She even has the facial shape, hair, and eye color.

I don't remember having a family member. Not even that man is considered to be my father.

"Anyway, we just have to see how the day goes tomorrow. You should go get some rest Kiyo-Kun."

"Ah. Right. Good night Akiyama-San."

"Good night Kiyo."

The phone line ends as I look at my phone. It was 20:47. How long have we been calling?

[May 2nd - after classes]
[Library]

Miyako's POV

I was sitting on the chair one table away from them. I was watching how they were doing until Horikita just couldn't handle it. "You know, if you can't handle this math problem then you shouldn't be in this school." After she said that, hands were slammed on the table.

"What did you say to me?!" The red angry bird got his emotions out of control once again. He yanked Horikita's collar. I stood up prepared to take action if things go wrong.

"I said you shouldn't be in this school. You're too incompetent. You can't even be successful if you are going to act like this." Horikita, I think you are making things worst. They're not going to change their habits if you throw negative comments at them.

"Tch. Screw this. I skipped my club activity for nothing." He lets go and grabs his bag, walking away along with his other two friends. I ran up to them and blocked the doorway. "Out of my way." He was about to grab my shoulder but I stepped back. "Hey hey, let's calm down. Give Horikita-San a chance here. If you don't let us help you then our class is going to be forever defectives. I'm sure you don't want your club to know that you are one of the students that have horrible results. Think about it, you are in a sports-related club right?" His eyebrow rose, he was getting tensed up more.

"You join this school to be a sports-related professional. You won't achieve that if you walk through this door and won't study for your midterms." His shoulders loosen up, I think I finally manage to calm him down. At least for now.

"I can't handle that woman. Sorry, Akiyama." He pushes me to the side as I look at him. The two boys behind look at me. "I'm sorry, he's right but I can't work with her." Both Iku and Yamauchi said, following him behind.

Kiyotaka stood out of his seat, looking at me. "You tried." I look at him and just nod. I sigh disappointedly by the results of the study group. "They're not even worth my time. Why did I even try to help those fools anyway?" Horikita had her arms folded, her facial expression remains irritated as ever.

"Akiyama-San is right... You aren't going to get anything achievable if you act harshly to those guys.." Kushida tries to help out. You know Kushida, I probably think this situation got a bit worse when you arrived here and sat down with our study group.

"If you were trying to sound sincere then I'm alright with it. Why did you even come here anyway?" Horkita asks looking at Kushida.

My eyebrow furrowed by Horikita's questioning Kushida. "I don't even know what you talking about... Horikita-San why are you always so harsh to others? Just composing these words makes me feel bad.." Kushida walks away, sounding like she was about to cry.

I was able to see a quick glimpse of her facial expression, it wasn't tears of sadness. It is the face of pure anger with a mix of tears.

"I'm leaving." Horkita grabs her things and stuffs them in her bag. She walks away from Kiyotaka and me. "That didn't go so well. It is expected, after all, having Horikita-san and Sato, Iku, and Yamauchi in the same group could end up having conflict." I said as I had my hands behind my back looking at the chairs being out and not pushed in.

"We can try again some other time." At least Kiyo's trying to be supportive.

I walk over and push the chairs back to the table. I'm going to ask a dumb question. "Kiyo-Kun. Can I spend time in your dorm?"

"May I ask why?"

"Is it not natural for a friend to hang out in your dorm?"

Kiyotaka looks at me, considering my question. "Sure, I guess."

[Kiyotaka's dorm room]

I heard friends would visit each other's residence and hang out with them such as playing games or such. At least that's what I heard from other people. They would say things like "I'm going to go to your dorm" and other things. Although, it's awkward between me and Kiyotaka.

Kiyotaka is laying down on his bed while I'm sitting on the floor, huddling my legs while on my phone looking at the time. Just silence between us.

Kiyotaka sat up from his bed, looking at me. "Do you want to go get a drink from the vending machine?"

I look up at him, "Sure. I need to refresh my mind after the recent incident." I stood up. We both walk outside.

It was a cold night and I sigh. Kiyotaka approaches the vending machine. "So, Akiyama-San. There's one question I wanted to ask." I look at him. "Hm? What's the question Kiyo-Kun?" I lean against the wall with my arms folded because it's just cold outside. "Why did you come to this school?" He asks such a strange question.

"Freedom I suppose," I answered as he looks at me, his face still an apathetic expression. "Then Akiyama-San. Wh-" I stopped leaning against the wall, I show a gesture to hush. I poke my head, peaking to see two figures on an alleyway.

"Suzune, I'm amazed you have the brains to track me down." Horikita and somebody I couldn't recognize due to being dark. Kiyotaka is standing behind me peaking his head to see what's going on.

"Listen Nii-San. I only followed you here because I wanted to show that I'm not a failure like I was in the past. I wanted to prove to you that I've changed."

"That's Horikita but who's she with, brother?" Kiyotaka whispers to me.

"Prove you changed? Hardly." The figure adjusted his glasses. "After all this time you clearly have not come into terms with your own shortcomings. You are foolish to think you can succeed here. Leave. Now." He sounds commanding.

"You're wrong! I'm going to be in Class A soon. Then you'll see!" Horikita sounds confident on that comment. And soon? I doubt it.

"Don't bother."

I silently pull out my phone, turning the sound off as I pressed recording. I peak at the camera facing the figure.

"I promise... I know I can make it." Her voice sounds quiet; like she's being ashamed of herself. Like a disappointment to her family. "You're an irrational little brat." The figure turns around. I was quite surprised to see... "The student council president?" We both said the same words with some shock.

The student council president grabs her left wrist and slams her against the wall. "My little sister, that is assigned to class D. Don't you ever think that you bring shame to this family? I'm the one who hears the shame of it. Leave this school right now.

"Brother... Please just listen.." Is she scared of what her brother might do?

"You have neither the right nor the ability to aim for something higher." He prepares himself as his other hand was in a grasp position. "Someday you will learn."

I felt a gust of wind behind me as I turn around. I look around and Kiyotaka was gone. "Eh? Where he go?" I mumbled but I turn back to the alleyway to see him confronting Horikita's brother. He is grabbing his wrist, pulling it away from Horikita. "Ayanokouji-kun?!" She wasn't expecting him to be listening in.

"Seriously? You were really going to drive that in, weren't you? Let her go." I have never seen this side of him but of course, his facial expression remains the same...

"Stop it, Ayanokouji-Kun." Why are you defending your brother, Horikita?

I see Kiyotaka let go of his wrist. Suddenly he tries to attack him with his fist, aiming at his head. Kiyotaka dodges it. I observe his expression, he seems.. normal? He doesn't show any struggle or a sudden reaction after being nearly punched to the head?

Mister student council guy lifts his leg trying to focus on kicking Kiyotaka to the head. Of course, he dodges it with ease. "Close one..."

He seems surprised by his attack as he had his hand out open but Kiyotaka grab his lower arm, slapping it away from him. He backed away from Kiyotaka.

"You fight like an expert, tell me what kind of arts do you practice?" I continue to record it but I have the urge to intervene and show him the video.

"Piano and calligraphy."

Wait

What?

Okay no, I don't wanna sit and watch.

"Interesting conversation I'm hearing." I intervened in their conversation. My facial expression remains to calm as usual. "Akiyama-San?" Horikita seems to be also surprised at why I appeared out of hiding. However, she noticed what I have out and her face turn to a small bit of fear. I had my phone out revealing the footage. " You're an irrational little brat."

"This footage is good. I wonder..." I look up at him. "You know listening in people's conversations is a bad thing?" The student council approaches me but suddenly runs with his hand out, trying to grab my phone.

I move to the left, putting my phone in my pocket and he turns around. He tries to do a roundhouse kick in an attempt to make me lose balance as I dodged his attack. I swung my right foot to hit his shin. It was a success as he grunted, losing his balance he fell to the floor. Trying to get up but he fell to his knees, touching his shin.

"Ung, I'm impressed.."

"Nii-San!" Horikita tries to run over to check on her brother. Running past Kiyotaka and bend down to her brother's level. "I'm alright. Your lucky she didn't break my leg."

I stare down at him, my facial expression remains unchanged.

He slowly stood up. "Oh. That's right.. I'd have heard two new students got 50's on their entrance exams." He turns to look at Kiyotaka.

"You got a 50 on the quiz the other day, too." Then he turns to look at me. "And you got an 80 on the recent quiz.

"A fifty half of 100 and an eighty out of hundred. Was that intentional both of you?" I look at Kiyotaka then look back at him.

"Coincidences can be freaky," Kiyotaka said as I nod in agreement. "You're both unique I see.." he turns to look at Horikita.

"I'm genuinely impressed you made two friends."

She looks down. "They're not my friends. They're just classmates. You know I don't need company."

"As usual, you mistaken isolation for independence. Suzune." He said and walks away from us. Kiyotaka's eyes follow him. He turns to look at me. "I expect you to delete that video."

"And if I say no? I can keep this for blackmail you know." He approaches me but my guard was up so if he tries anything, I won't hesitate to kick his knee this time. "I'll give you anything. Points in exchange for the video deletion." A deal huh?

"Fine, 80,000 points." He seems surprised by the price. Seems to be doubting his deal. "You in class A, aren't you? You have higher points than all of the students in Class D. After all, this video is quite a high price." The tone of my voice was stern. He pulls his phone out. "Deal." He offers his 80,000 points and I pull my phone out, looking at it.

The 76,476 has increased to 156,476 points. I turn my phone to face mister student council president. I deleted the video in front of him. "Thank you for your corporation." I put back my phone in my pocket.

He stays silent then looks at Horikita. "If you want to ascend to a higher class, struggle with every ounce of strength you have." That's his last words of departure. I look at Horikita then look back at Kiyotaka.

My mind is curious even more about Kiyotaka. "Who are you?" That's the only thing I could think about. Those martial skills, the entrance exams.

Was it just a mere coincidence? Are you from that room as well?

All three of us returned to the vending machine, I was sipping on my mini coffee can. Looks like Kiyotaka got the same one as well. Just silence until Horikita wanted to speak out. "I guess you both caught me at an awkward time." I'm not going to forget that.

"And you made a deal with my brother over the blackmail." I took a sip of my drink. "Don't be mad Horikita-San. I was just a witness who was about to see you being thrown to the ground. After all, it could be used to my advantage."

She stood up, glaring at me with anger filled in her eyes. "You saw me delete it, didn't you? These points can be useful one day. I didn't get them just out of pure greed like our classmates who drained it for pointless items." My face remains unfazed as ever by her fierce anger.

Kiyotaka looks at both of us and blinks, he takes a sip of his drink.

"Actually, I was glad to see what a normal girl you could b-" Horikita shot glares at Kiyotaka.

"I didn't say anything." Guess he's scared of Horikita's glare or something?

"I got to admit. You're both incredible." She compliments us. Finally, some nice words came out of Horikita's mouth. "Yeah. I used to do piano and tea ceremony." Tea ceremony? When did that popup?

"You said it was calligraphy," Horikita added and he continues to stare at his drink. "I did calligraphy too." I gotta admit, his answers seem strange.

"And you, Akiyama-San?" I look at her. "Nothing much. I just read books.."

"Akiyama-san and Ayanokouji-Kun. Did you really rig your scores on the entrance exams?"

I stay silent as I sigh. "Like what Kiyo-Kun said. It's just some coincidence." I said and take another sip. "I don't understand either of you." Good. You should not try to understand me.

"Are you really finished with the study group?" Kiyotaka asks as Horikita looks up at the night sky. "Yes. I've determined those persistent failures to be a waste of my time. It doesn't benefit me in any way.

"They'll be expelled though. That was your goal but you abandoned it after having lost hope with those three." I said and Horikita looks at me. "I don't care what happens to anyone else. On the contrary, those who remain will be the better students. Their loss would be easier for our class to rise. I couldn't ask for more." She's that determined that our class will take Class A?

Kiyotaka looks away from Horikita, looking at the ground. "Are you sure that's not a flawed way of thinking?" Horikita turns to look at Kiyotaka.

"Your shortcomings is that you assume others will hold you back and put them at a distance from the start. Couldn't that philosophy of looking down on others would've been the reason why you were in class D in the first place?" The perfect statement there Kiyo. I absolutely agree with you 100%.

Horikita looks away from him, clutching her chest. "... I.."

Looks like his words got to her.

[Classroom 1-D]

And so. The midterms have arrived, everyone was studying nonstop except for me. Grammar, math, chemistry, civics, English, and every school subject that this world has.

Every student in class D manage to get some high scores after last month was a complete fail.

Akiyama Miyako
Chemistry: 80 points

English: 72 points

Other subjects such as math were around 72-80 range of points I have scored during the exams.

I look at the midterm posters, reading them. So. Kiyotaka remains to be average huh?...

—————

Chapter five episode two-part two: Mere coincidence

To be continued.

Author: Eyo. Another chapter within a week. So quick fact of what happens during entrance exams. Miyako wanted to get 50/100 but then she decided to score 72-80 range so she could prevent attention from others of why she keeps getting 50s, unlike Kiyo here.

So here is the fighting style. Miyako is usually reflective even quick to adapt to her situation. She's like a swift spear, she will hit faster. She'll aim for the weak points which will immediately cause the person to be unconscious or lose their footing.

While Kiyo is just a bold and calculated attack. Simply if ya punch him, he'll punch harder. If that makes sense for you guys for their fighting style ••

Thank one of these peeps for helping me with the idea of their combat skills. MrS_S_AA

March 24, 2022

Words: 4553

Chapter Six: Behind the scenes

(Bewareee, another OOC chapter hopefully. And it might be short.)

Everyone has a role in some part of their grand master plan. Nothing will go wrong with this plan if everyone plays their role correctly.

[you can skip the first half for those who didn't watch the anime. The 2nd day, things are different]

[Classroom of 1-D]
Ayanokouji's POV

"Ayanokouji-Kun. What did you do?" Horikita ask me as I had my chin leaning against my left hand. "I didn't do anything," I answered.

[Three days before the midterms]

I was walking past the tennis court, observing the tennis players. "Sounds great to me! Bring it on!" I stopped to hear some sort of commotion. I turn my head towards the source.

Three males, the middle with shoulder-length magenta and a red hair male in front of them. It was Sudo. "Wow, what era did you step out of with that thug act? So lame." The dark blondish hair male said.

"You are an apathetically ugly creature."

"Say that again!" Both of his henchmen grab his shoulders to prevent Sudo from punching the magenta guy.

Kushida asked me to invite him to her study group, but...

He's already causing a commotion.

"Let me go!" Sudo struggles to fight within his henchmen's grip. "I can't wait to see how many from the class will be expelled after the upcoming test." The magenta guy approaches him. "I bet the first will be..." I continue to watch them from a distance.

"I hope you said your prayers!" Suddenly he lunges at him but a female voice was heard. "Both sides, stop right there!" Oh, it's Ichinose...

"Who the hell are you?! Stay out of this!" He shouts at her.

Her arms were folded with confidence. "As a student of this school, I cannot allow violence to pass under my watch. If you insist on fighting regardless. I'm going to call security."

"Ichinose, this isn't a fight. We're the victims here. This red hair is at fault." The magenta male said.

"Are you sure? It looks like to me that toy goaded him into it. Ryuen-Kun. If you keep this up, I'll have to report this to the school." She said as the guy name Ryuen considers it. He walks away from him. "Hey monkey, I think you'll make a nice plaything." Sudo didn't like that comment.

I approach up to him, walking past Ryuen. "Hey, you!" I look at Sudo as he's letting his emotions go more uncontrolled. I grab his shoulder. "Sudo." He looks at me. Seems like he got back to his senses.

"Listen up. Don't let Ryuen-Kun bait you, okay?" Ichinose said as I remain silent. However, Suto remains hostile. "You shut the hell up."

"Sorry for the scare! It's okay now~!" Ichinose apologies as the tennis players thanked her. She looks back at us. "No more causing trouble for others. Okie, that is all~!" She walks away from us.

"Tch. Damn it!" Suto grabs his bag and I turn around. "Sudo, do you have some time now? Kushida's studying in the-"

"Pass. I've got club." He walks away from me. "Will you be alright though? Ike and Yamauchi are both in on it now." I tried to convince him but he remains stubborn.

"Scrambling at this point won't get me anywhere!" I sigh with disappointment.

Now, onto day two...

[Two days before the midterms]

I was sitting on the stool with Akiyama. "Kiyo-Kun, why you called me here?" Akiyama asks as I look at her. "I call you out here about the midterms. I'm sure you know what I am going to ask for." Akiyama looks around then looks back at me.

"No." She refused immediately. "But I haven't said anything that could make you refuse.." I ended up having a shot glare from Akiyama. "You are going to use me to get some sort of information about the midterms from the other Class D year?" Oh, she sure knows what I am going to say... Is it that obvious from my face or was it the surrounding?

"Please. I know you won't say anything about this conversation." I tried to convince her. She sighs a bit annoyed. "Fine. Only one time though. That's it." I got through to her defense.

I got off the stool as I walk over to the counter, hiding behind the wall. I poke my head to peak as Akiyama does the same. She is a little bit short when she stands close to me. "Let's go." I walk to the table where the upperclassman is. "Excuse me. You're an upperclassman right?" I scoot the chair as I sat down next to him while Akiyama sits in front.

"I'm Ayanokouji from class 1-D. You're in D class too, right?" The upperclassman nods that he's an upperclassman.

I tried to engage in a conversation with the upperclassman. "The free stuff must taste pretty bad, huh?"

"What do you want?" I look at the food, it sure looks horrible. "I want to consult with you about something. Of course, I'll make it worth your while."

"Consult?"

"Do you have the questions from your first midterm two years ago?" The upperclassman seems to be in shock. "I want you to give them to me." I glance at Akiyama as she looks like she's going to kill me later after this conversation. I look back at the upperclassmen.

"Why are you coming to me about this?"

"Why else? Those low in points would be more likely to make a trade and I saw you eating that foul looking wild vegetable lunch set." Looks like he's going to give in. "How much will you pay?" He asks.

"Ten thousand points. That's my upper limit."

"That's a risk in this for me too. I'd need 30,000 points at the very least." Looks like it's not going to be an easy task.

"I'm afraid that's not possible."

"No deal then." The upperclassman said, suddenly Akiyama stood out of her chair with her hands slamming on the table. "Wait a minute! Look, our good friend of ours might be expelled if they don't.." she stops for a moment. It looks like she's going to die from this emotion. Is it that bad?

"They don't.. uh... Not pass the midterms. Please.." her eyes were glistening with sadness as she was going to cry. And her face just the look of begging.

"Ten thousand," I said as Akiyama got close to upperclassman. "Twenty-five thousand... Just because of your sister.." I'm going to ignore that last comment. All I need is the midterms questions from the previous two years.

"Ten thousand," I repeated, Akiyama, sat back down.

"Twenty thousand." Looks like he's slowly breaking.

Akiyama stares into the upperclassman's eyes with desperate need. What's it called again? Oh yes. The puppy eyes.

"The offer is 10,000," I repeated the amount. He looks away from Akiyama. "Only 15,000. I do not possibly go any lower." It's a success

"Very well. It's a deal in exchange, please include your quizzes from the first term."

"Okay.." the upperclassman said as Akiyama smiles widely. "Thank you so much, k-Kind SIR!" She stood up from her chair.

After we walk away from the table. We head outside to sit down on a nearby bench.

[Outside fountain]

Akiyama tries to punch me directly to my head as I block her attack. "... Can't believe you put me through that torture. It's more worst than before." She tries to punch me to my stomach as I stop her attack by grabbing her lower arm.

"I'm sorry." I apologized as I look at her. "I'm used to your tone so I know you meant it." She's used to it? What does she mean by that?

I let her lower arm go as she walks to a bench nearby, she sat down. I approach her and sat down next to her. "It seems like you were easy to manipulate your own emotions." She looks down. "It isn't that easy. How can I be happy? Unexpectedly, the plan went well." She doesn't know how to be happy? I have seen her smile a bit.

She sighs, her face remains unchanged. The usual calm expression. "You got what you wanted. What are you going to do with the midterms?" I look at my phone as I have receive the email.

"I'm going to give them to Kushida-San. I'll pretend I have found them and she will take credit on these questions." I look at the tiny paper that is similar to the email. "Because you don't want to be the center of attention? I know how that feels." She was able to predict my motive? She's getting more suspicious.

There is silence between us. I look at her and lift my hand. I pat her head. "What are you doing?" She asks as I drop my hand back down. "I'm sorry again. You look like you were about to break down." I explained as she was a bit confused. "Huh?"

"It's nothing then. I shall see you back at class." I stood up, walking away from Akiyama.

[A day before the midterms]

As expected, Kushida walks in and has all the paperwork from previous questions. She passes them out. She is now surrounded by boys thanking her and such.

[Test results announcement day]

"As usual. Kushida-San is well suited to the role." I opened my eyes looking at Horikita. "Not much of a compliment," Horikita said.

"To be honest, I'm impressed. I never thought you'd be able to get such high scores. I acknowledge your efforts. However.." Chabashira-sensei had a red marker, marking Sudo on red. "You got a failing score, Sudo." I look over at sudo's facial expression. Pure disbelief.

Miyako's POV

He doesn't believe he failed. "The average score in the midterm test was 79.6 percent. Divide by two. Since we found that up, you needed a score of 40 or higher to pass."

79.6 / 2 = 39.8

"We only knew each other for a short time but I appreciate your efforts. I shall issue a report of your expulsion after classes."

Sudo's eyes were still wide with fear. "I'm gonna be... expelled?" I feel bad for him. I turn my head to see Hirata stand up from his seat. "Wait a minute! Isn't there any way to save him?"

"A failing score means you're finished," Chabashira-sensei answered as Kushida was up. "Isn't there anything we can do? We can't let Sudo-kun be expelled..."

Chabashira-sensei looks down at Kushida. "Rules are rules. Give it up. The homeroom is now over. Sudo, I'll be waiting in the staff office after classes." Chabashira-sensei walks away from the board and exits the classroom.

"Hey, are we just going to accept this? Sudo-Kun is going to be expelled.." Kushida asks everyone for advice but everyone remains silent.

I stood up from my seat, heading to the door.

"Akiyama-San?" Kushida calls out my name and I continue to walk out. "I'm sorry. I'm going to head to the bathroom." I said and head out, I close the door behind to see Chabashira-sensei go up the rooftop.

I follow her behind and I have arrived at the doorstep to see her meditating. "What is it? Class is going to start soon, Ayanokouji Miyako." My eyes were dark when she said my real surname.

"Sensei, I would like for you to not use my name like that. But, may I ask you a question?"

"A question?" She asks.

"This world, is it colorless to your eyes?" I ask as Chabashira-sensei seems confused. "The world huh? It's colorful. Every place has its beauty. Although some places are colorless or filled with blood. Such as murder."

"I see." I pull up my phone. "Enough with the side talks. I'll like to pay one point for Sudo. I remember clearly that you can use any of the school points for everything." Chabashira-sensei smirks. "And what makes you think you have the price for the points? 100,000 for one test score." Oh, the price is that high?

"That's cruel. No wonder why students keep failing in your class." I said looking at Chabashira-sensei. Her eyebrow twitched from their response. "So? What will you do? I don't think you have that amount of-"

"I'll pay for it." Horikita was at the entrance. Even Kiyotaka. Both of them approach me. "Oh, hi Kiyo-Kun and Horikita-San." I gave a small wave. Chabashira-sensei had a smile on her face.

"I don't know the penalty of this but I rather keep him in class D. I don't know how he feels but I know he doesn't want to be expelled that early," Horikita said and had her phone out so she can buy out the point. "Defectives like you surely impress me." She said as Horikita grips onto her phone tightly. "Defectives can be fixed," Horikita said and Chabashira-sensei chuckled at that comment. "Then as your teacher, I will be watching you very closely then." After we bought one point for Sudo. She walks away from us.

"..." I sigh with relief that we got that over with. Hopefully, nobody heard our conversation earlier.

"I shall see you in your dorm, Kiyo-Kun." I walk away from them.

(Author: then you know what will happen with Horikita and Kiyo. *)

[Kiyotaka's dorm room]
Kiyotaka's POV

I let out a sigh. Loud cheering and chatter can be heard. "Hey, why the long face?" Sudo asks as I look at him. "I have no objection to the celebration party, and I am taking part... but why is it in my room?" I ask as I look over at Akiyama who is sitting against the bed. "But man, that was close! If Kushida-Chan hadn't gotten those old test questions, Ike and Sudo would've been out by a mile!"

"Hey, you barely passed too," Ike said with a big smile on his face.

"I just haven't gotten serious yet."

"Sudo, you still failed even with the old tests!"

"Oh. It's sure is loud.." Akiyama said as she was taking a sip of the soda. I turn to look at her. "Agreed."

"Hey! At least let us have fun Akiyama-San." All three of the boys said. "Hey, Ayanokouji-Kun." Kushida approaches me, bending down to my level. "How did you get them to rescind Sudo-Kun's explosion?" I look at Horikita. "She did it. She said that you can't expel someone without explanation just because they got a failing score."

"W-wait." She looks away from her book as Kushida is happy as ever. "You did that, Horikita?"

I look away from them. "I've never seen her so serious about anything. It sure was incredible. She threw all these accusations and not one teacher could fight her." I thought I heard a small chuckle. Someone I wasn't expecting. Probably just my imagination...

All boys in the group besides me were happy with Horikita's amazing action. "Aren't you glad, Sudo?" I ask as he seems surprised. "Why would you do that for me?" He asks since he seems like he doesn't deserve it after being a jerk to the class.

"I merely acted for my benefits," Horikita said.

After some hours have passed, Horikita and the other boys have left. Unfortunately, Akiyama went to sleep early in my room. "I guess I have to let her sleep over.." I said while cleaning the mess. "Thank you for helping me clean up." I look at Kushida.

She turns around with a smile on her face. I look at Akiyama and grab the blanket from my bed, wrapping her around with it. "Ayanokouji-Kun..."

I look at Kushida. "Yes?"

"Do you like girls like Horikita-San or Akiyama-San?" That's an unexpected question.

"I always see you three together. All the girls in class are talking about it. Since Akiyama-San isn't a relative, they thought you have a crush on either of them." Oh. A strange question indeed...

"Horikita-san is my friend... Actually, she's just my neighbor. Akiyama-san is just... A friend." The last word, I'm not sure if I can consider her a friend.

"I see. I'm going back to my room. Maybe wake up Akiyama-san so she can go back to her room. Good night." Kushida walks out, closing the door behind her.

"Sure.. night."

"Mmm... I assume she's gone now?.." Akiyama rubs her left eye. "Oh. You woke up early." I said as she looks my bed. "Is that your phone? Or Kushida's?" She ask and I look at it. "No. It's Kushida's. I should probably give it to her." I picked it up and Akiyama unwraps herself from the blanket.

"Let me come with you. I like to see her reaction when she forgotten something." Hm? Why does she want to come with me?

After we both went out, I look at the elevator. "Hey Akiyama-san. Isn't the upper floor suppose to be the girls room? Why is she going below?" I ask and Akiyama shrugs. "I'm tired... Let's just give her the phone." Akiyama said and we went in. We were on the first floor and we went out the building. Akiyama first saw Kushida walking to the dark ends of the street.

We both followed her to be led to the sea. Too bad it's guarded by a fence.

I shouldn't really be hiding..

Akiyama pulls my arm and goes into hiding behind a tree. "What?" I whispered as akiyama hushed. "Ugh. What a pain." Hm?

"You think you're so great just because you're pretty... I hate you! I swear, I hate you, hate you, hate you!" Each time she said hate, she keeps kicking the fence.

"Just die, Horikita!"

"I hate you. I hate you! Stupid COW!"

The phone notification beep. Akiyama grabs my wrist. Shaking her head since she rather not be spotted right now. "She's going to look at this place anyway, I can walk out while you are in hiding." I whispered to her as akiyama looks at me. "Fine. But don't do anything that could make her more irritated." She whispers back.

"What? Is someone there?

I walk out of hiding. "It's me. Ayanokouji. You forgot your cell pho-" she grabs it out of my hand. "Did you hear?" She ask

"If I said I didn't, would you believe me?" She leans closer to me, looking directly at me. Her eyes were not her happy mask one. It's anger. Disgust. "If you tell anyone about this, you'll pay." She threatens me as I remain unfazed.

"May I ask how?" I ask

"I'll tell everyone you tried to rape me." I continue to look at her directly at her eyes. "That would be a false accusation." She grabs my left hand and force me to grab her chest. "Oh no. It's not a false accusation."

"See? Your fingerprints are right here. I'm serious." I still remain unfazed by her threat. "Okay. I understand. Let me go please." She let's go of my hand.

"You hear me? If you betray me, you'll pay." She looks behind me.

"Is Akiyama-San with you?"

"No. Why?"

"Oh. It's just because you always been around her since the first day of school. You truly are like siblings." Here we go with sibling conversation.

"I don't have any memory of her so we aren't related. It was just a coincidence that we both look alike.."

Kushida turns around. "Ayanokouji-Kun, what was mi-chan like? Was she always this quiet? Was Mi-Chan naughty as a kid? I can't imagine her like that." Who's Mi-chan?

"Like I said before. I have no memory of her." I answered as Kushida sigh, annoyed and she turns around. "Guess we have another secret!" She's back to her usual self.

Kushida, which one are you? The real who threatened me or the fake who always smiles at everyone?

Miyako's POV

I stopped the recording. I look at the footage. "..." How am I suppose to react to this? I continue to replay the footage in silence of course but those words will always be in my mind. What is this feeling?

Heh...

Fine then, Kushida. I'll let you keep playing Kiyo. But I'll obtain my pawn back. After you had your fun. I'll be the one to pull the strings of you.

My puppet.

—————

Chapter six episode three: Behind the scenes

To be continued.

Author: oh my. 6 chapters within a week now. Oh welp, We got to angy Miyako. I like to thank my friend who gives me more ideas on this fanfic so check out his books. *

March 25, 2022

Words: 3465

Chapter seven: A 'normal' day

[Ima keep sending warnings to these chapters that it may be OOC since Y e a]

What is love? Well, love can come in many different forms. Everyone shows their affection differently. Family, friends, couples.

But how do you know you are in love with someone?

[June 29]
Kiyotaka's POV

After Kushida has left. "You can come out now." I turn to look over at the hiding spot where Akiyama is. I heard ruffles as she stood up, walking out of the bushes. "It's uncomfortable hiding within the leaves." She brushes the leaves off from her uniform. "So, Kiyo-Kun. What are you going to do now with her? Especially since she has threatened you." She asked.

Akiyama is here so she may be a witness if I do end up triggering Kushida's mask to fall off.

"She's not a threat, yet." I let out a sigh. "If she is going to be, I bet she will have her guard up if I have this." She pulls her phone out of her pocket and looks at the video. "You got it all in a recording?" I ask and I look over.

"I'll tell everyone that you rape me." She plays the small clip. I look at Akiyama's face. Nothing much to show, just a blank facial expression by the threat. "I'll keep this for blackmail. Besides I knew she was hiding something the moment I saw her." Akiyama said as she puts her phone back in her pocket. "We'll just see how it goes." I look away from her, looking at the quiet street.

"Oh yes. I have been noticing you still use my surname. It wouldn't be fair if I call you by your first name." I blink as I turn my head to look at her. "Are you alright with it?" I ask as she nods. "Yes. Kiyopon." That's a bad nickname.

"Besides I didn't permit for Kushida-san to use my first name as a joke." Oh. So that Mi-Chan that Kushida says is Akiyama.

"Alright. I need to head back to my room. See you in class." Akiyama waves bye and walks away from me.

"Alright. Have a good night."

[Next Day]
Miyako's POV

I was standing in the elevator with Kushida and Horikita. "... I never expect you to be in the same room as her," I whispered to Horikita. "She was waiting outside of my room." Creepy much?

Kushida stands behind me with a smile on her face. We three stood there till the next elevator stopped. We see Kiyotaka 'yawning'. Wondering if that yawn was just an act of being tired or was it real? Jee, Sometimes I can't understand him. "Getting in or not?" Horikita ask.

"I am. I will be getting in if you don't mind." He walks inside with the three of us. How is this elevator not crowded yet? Horkita pressed the elevator button as the door closes. "Morning Ayanokouji-Kun!" Kushida smiles as nothing happened

I wonder...

"You've got-"

"Kiyo-Kun. You got a little bedhead going on in the back of your hair." I interrupted her as I glance over at Kushida. She still is smiling but I know I cracked a bit of her mask. "Natural hair is in fashion these days. Besides you have one too.." I tap my head as I look at him. I didn't say anything else. I'm just too lazy to do my hair.

"You're funny, Ayanokouji-Kun. Maybe I should try natural hair then!" Isn't your hair natural? You just do your hair. She just plays around with her hair and just that masked smile is still there.

We step out of the elevator as Horikita walks ahead of us. "Aw... I was hoping we could walk to school together."

"Morning Kushida-San!" A girl with long hair that seems light orange. "Oh Ichinose-San." she approaches us. "Kushida-San. Is this your boyfriend?" She asks.

"No, of course not!" She laughs it off. I'm glad she isn't lying about it. Honestly, I don't see Kiyo's type of girl to be like her. She's too... What's that word that can describe her? B*tch? Hm. Yeah, that sounds right.

I nudge Kiyotaka's right sleeve. "Kiyo-Kun. let's go." I whispered in a quiet voice so she wouldn't hear me. He looks at me. "We should walk with Kushida though."

"That reminds me... Did you guys get your points?" Ichinose asks as I look at her. Pretty sure we didn't get 0 points, unlike last month.

[Classroom 1-D]

"Unfortunately there was an issue. The first years of the points have been delayed." Chabashira-sensei said as the class was in shock. "Eh? Don't we get compensation if the school has this issue?" This ain't like a game where you get compensation if the server crashes.

"There's nothing that I can do. The moment the problem is resolved, the points will be given. Unless you still have points." Ow. That sure felt like a call out to broke students.

[Alleyway]
Kiyotaka's POV

I meet up with Ichinose. "Sorry to call you out like this.." her face seems to be red. "What's going on?" I ask as I approach her. "I think I..." I stare at her, blinking. "Am going to get asked out! Right here!" She said trying to hide her embarrassment.

. . . .

"E h?"

"Wait, um... Won't it be better if I'm not here then?" So why am I here then if they're going to do a love confession here?

"But I don't know anything about dating. I found this in my locker yesterday. I don't feel the same way. And I don't know how to turn the person down without harming their feelings." Oh. I don't know how to explain myself about love.

"So I was wondering if you might pretend to be my boyfriend... and..."

That old cliche, huh?

"Please!" She looks up at me. "You'd be better off taking it out with them, one on one."

"But..." she stops to see someone behind me. Standing out of the alleyway. I turn around to see it was her classmate. "Ichinose-san. Who's that?.." she seems unsure.

"U-um, sorry! Chihiro-Chan! I brought someone you don't know. This is Ayanokouji-Kun from class D." I see tears forming out of Chihiro's eyes. "Is he... your boyfriend?" Is today that I get asked if I'm their boyfriend? I wonder if this is how it feels to keep hearing the same question repeatedly. Such as the Akiyama situation...

I closed my eyes just trying to pretend I'm not here. "Ayanokouji-Kun is.. he's my-"

"We're just friends." I interrupt her and look at Ichinose. "Ichinose, confessing your feelings to someone isn't an easy thing. You spend every day in anguish yet you still can't do it. The words "I love you" hang in your throat, and you can't seem to force them out. I think her earner feelings deserve a proper answer, don't you?"

Ichinose looks a bit surprised then looks down. "Of course, it might not be my place to talk..." I walk away from them. Leaving the two of them alone.

Maybe I should ask Akiyama about it.

I found a nearby bench and I sat down, pulling my phone out. I tap on Akiyama contact as it starts to ring. "Hello?"

"Oh. Hello Akiyama-san."

"Enough with the formalities, Kiyo-Kun. I permitted you to call me by my first name." Doesn't that sound like a demand? I couldn't tell since her voice has some lack of emotion.

"Okay. Miyako-san." I recorrected myself. It felt a bit strange for me to call her Miyako.

"So, why you called me?" She asks.

"I was wondering, what is love?"

. . .
.

"Eh? Why would you ask me that?" She sounds surprised?

"You seem like a person to ask about," I answered.

"Kiyo. I don't see myself like that. I'm a bad person to ask for guidance about love."

"Oh. I see. I'm sorry for bothering you then." I was about to end the call. "But, if I have to say. It's someone you have feelings for. But if it's family or friend-related love. Then you are extremely careful about them." She said as I look at my phone. I put it back over my ear.

"So, you love your family?" I ask as there was silence over the line. "Let's say I don't. I have survived long enough with that person." That person?

"Is that all? Just a question?"

"Yeah."

"Then I'll see you later." The phone line ended as I look at my phone. I look at my student ID to see no points were received. It was strange why we didn't receive any points. My thought wanders about someone I can't get my mind off.

I have repeated this question before, but is Akiyama a threat? Do I think of her as a tool like everyone else? An excellent tool to use for everyone here. Her scores in her quiz are always ranging 74-80%. Is she like me? A person who doesn't want to be the center of attention and her reason for this school was freedom. Did we both came to the same area?

It's not adding up.

[April 1st]

Yesterday was a strange day after I went back to my dorm and lay down on my bed. I ended up having Kiyo calling me about love. It was strange that he would ask about love. Did he end up getting a girlfriend and confessed her feelings to him? I slide open the classroom door to hear shouting. Really?...

"I told you! I'm telling you! It was for self-defense!" Sudo shouted as the two other students don't believe him. "What is happening?" I ask to see Kushida is standing next to Kiyo. "Akiyama-san! Something bad happened." I look at her, blinking. "... I can see that," I said

The bell has rung and I sat down in my assigned seat. Having my chin lean against my right hand. Chabashira-sensei walks up to the front. "Basketball club members from class C have filed a report to the school to Sudo. They claim that after practice, Sudo attacked and injured them with no apparent reason." Oh, so is that why we didn't get any points? Because of Sudo's incompetence?

"It was self-defense! They were jealous because I became a regular so they picked a fight!" He tries to defend himself but as expected, Chabashira-sensei needed evidence to prove his innocence. "Though, if there was a witness, it might be a different story." She said as Kushida stood up. "Everyone! Did anyone happen to see Sudo-Kun's fight? Does anyone know about it? I look around the class, all eyes were focused on Kushida except one.

Why are they not saying anything?

"Perhaps you'd have been better off expelled, Red hair-Kun. Your presence is hardly beautiful." I'm going to expect another moment of Sudo shouting since his personality is too...

Easy to break.

"HUH?" Sudo stood up from his seat. Hirata stood up, "Sudo-kun! Don't!" He turns back to Chabashira-Sensei. "In one week's time. There will be a discussion with class C with the student council in attendance. Depending on how it turns out, there may be a forfeiture of points." So, filing a report could get two classes delayed on points?

"As well as disciplinary measures for Sudo." Hmm, I wonder how this is going to play out.

After some hours have passed, I hear everyone blaming Sudo for points. As expected humans are greedy for money. I turn my head to look at Horikita who folded her arms, staring at the window. "Do you agree with them? That Sudo-Kun should have been expelled." I continue to lean my chin against my hand. "Don't know. All I know is that he's useful for athletic situations. The problem is his behavior. One word about him in a negative way and he'll crack." I told Horikita my opinion about it, I'm only biased about him being expelled or not.

"I don't have an opinion. What do you think as one of the people who helped him?" Kiyo asks as I let out a sigh. His eyes remain to be closed. This game sure keeps making turns go into a repetitive cycle. It never ends. If I do one thing to save Sudo then it might make me the center of attention.

Horikita looks back at the window. "At the moment, we have zero points. Even if we had been penalized for losing someone to expulsion, we couldn't lose anymore."

I remain quiet about Horikita's opinion. "Yeah, sure, I guess." Kiyo I think you played a wrong move. After he said that, Horikita turn around looking at him. "What? I don't like the way you said that." I look at Horikita. "You never know when we might be experiencing losses or gains we can't see."

"What does that mean?"

"There might be negative point values we're gaining that we just aren't shown. Demerits for an expulsion might not hit us now but rather in the future." Oh, I know what he meant. "For instance "No expulsions" might be a condition for ascending to class A." Horikita looks away, looking at the window again. "So, what you saying is that if we lose that person, we might have a low chance of winning?" I ask as he opens his eyes, looking at me. He gestures a nod.

"Besides, Horikita-san. We don't know how the school system works yet. There may be more expeditions than you realize." I said, adding my part to the conversation. "If you want to be in A-class, then you should try to think of any threats that are ruining your path to class A," I added as Kiyo nods again. "You should eliminate any threats to that goal you can conceive of. Besides, what Miyako-san said before is that if we lose Sudo then we will have a low percentage of ascending to the next class. He comes in handy-" He got interrupted by the class leader. "Everyone, please listen to me. I want to trust my classmates, why don't we work together to hunt for witnesses and clues?" Should I partake in this? Probably not, I rather not get into any more activity for me.

I hear some students raising their hands, offering to help. Kushida ran to Kiyo's desk. "Hey, Horikita-san, Akiyama-san and Ayanokouji-kun... You'll work with us, won't you?" She asks. I look at her. "Kushida-san. I wish I can help but I'm going to have to pass on this one." Kushida looks at me and her face turns to those puppy dog eyes. "Please! We need all the help." it's not going to work. I'm sure Kiyo can figure out how to solve this case.

"I'm sorry. I need to rest. I have been feeling a little unwell recently." I made up a lie Kushdia's eyebrow seems a bit suspicious on my response. "If you say so Akiyama-san." She has given up on convincing me. "Given all you've said, I'm sure you'll be helping, won't you?" Horikita ask. "Well, it's not like I'm aiming for Class A..." His eyes look at Kushida. "You'll help us? Thanks!" He sighs, looks like he has no choice but to help.

Before Kushida can ask if Horikita is going to help, she walks away from us. All three of our eyes follow her as she walks out of the classroom. "Let's do our best." I stood up from my seat. "I shall leave now. Good luck." I walk out of the classroom.

Now then, where to find her and approach her...

I'll just have to talk with her tomorrow after classes so it will be easier. I'll just leave this to Kiyo and the others to solve.

[The next day, April 2nd]

After classes, I pull out my phone, texting him as I sent a message. 'Kiyo-Kun, have you figured it out?'

I glance over to see he's leaning against the wall with Horikita. I didn't see him have his phone out but he noticed I was looking at him.

The person who is a witness...

Is Sakura Airi.

—————

Chapter seven episode four: A 'normal' day.

To be continued.

Author: Oh 7 chapters have been released within a week. I like to thank you guys for continuing to read this book. Of course, I'm going to put OOC warnings whenever I'm writing Kiyotaka's Point of view or any of the characters. I'm trying hard to write in his POV without ruining his character.

March 25, 2022

Words: 2787

Chapter Eight: Another Mask

When a mask breaks, the person will try to buy a new one. Unfortunately, not all masks can be replaceable. They will wander anywhere to try and replace it. Anywhere to find their new mask to hide their face with.

[April 2nd]
[Classroom 1-D]

Miyako's POV
I step out of the classroom to see Kushida running after somebody and asking other classmates, searching for somebody. "What happened?" I look at Kiyo and Horikita. "Sakura left in a frenzied panic then dropped her digital camera," Horikita explains as I turn to look at the hallway.

"Akiyama-San. You knew it was Sakura was the witness. How?" I look back at Horikita. "You probably use the same method as I did. I only observe the entire classroom." I explain to her as she nods in agreement. "I have as well, she's the only one who was looking down while everyone was paying attention to Kushida." I glanced at Kiyo who seems to be within his thoughts.

"I guess we can ask Kushida to call Sakura. We can use that broken digital camera as a reason to hang out with her." Well, that's my plan to get Sakura to say she's the witness and help Sudo. Horikita sigh. "If you're thinking about inviting me with Kushida then it's a no." Horikita walks away from me. I wasn't going to even try to convince you.

I approached Kiyotaka. "Hey, Kiyo-Kun. You wanna come with us to fix Sakura's camera?" I ask as he blinks. "If you are going to fix her digital camera, do you need me?" He asks. "Well, Sakura is afraid of strangers. It might be a good opportunity to know more about her. She can get comfortable around us and be willing to tell us about Sudo's incident." I explain to him my reason for inviting him.

"Alright. I'll go then." I feel bad for him that I'm dragging him around from place to place. "Good, We have a day off on Sunday. Tell Kushida-san about this and call me when she gets a response from Sakura to go with us tomorrow." I was about to leave when I heard my name. "Miyako-san. Could you just tell her that yourself?" He asks as I turn my head, looking at him. "You have her contact number. I don't. Besides, she's spending most of her time with you after that event. And I'm not going to look around the entire school to find Kushida."

"Oh. Alright. I'll call Kushida about your plan."

"See you on Sunday if possible." I turn back around, leaving him alone.

[April 3rd]
[Miyako's dorm room]

I look at my plain closet, I didn't bother spending my points on clothes and jewelry so I decided to wear a black dress with a blue jacket and some brown boots. After I have finished dressing up for a day. I look back at my room, it was plain and boring but on the desk had a chessboard with some of the pieces knocked off. I turned off the lights and closed the door behind me. I went to the location where to meet up with Kushida and Kiyo and Sakura. The mall district.

I look at my phone to check the time as I got a call from Kiyo. "Hello?"

"Hey, Akiyama-san! Where are you at? Sakura going to arrive soon." I heard Kushida's voice over the line. I look at my phone and it still shows who's calling me. I guess she asks Kiyo to borrow his phone to contact me.

"I'm heading there right now," I answered

"Oh, alright then! Ayanokouji-kun and I will see you there then!" The line ended.

[Mall district]
After I have arrived, I met up with Kiyotaka and Kushida. We have waited a few minutes then Sakura arrives and bows her head. "I'm sorry to make you come with me for this."

"I'm the one who should apologize!" Kushida said with a smile on her face still. Does her mask ever get exhausted to keep that smile all the time? I look over at Kiyotaka who looks around the area. The four of us decided to sit down at a table with an umbrella attached to it and ordered some drinks. "You're going to the electronics store in the mall to fix your digital camera. I understand that much but did you need us?" Well, looks like my reason backfired since it seems like Sakura was the one who called Kushida, then Kiyotaka texted me to go with him. And here we are. Sitting and having drinks. I observe Sakura's movements as she still seems timid and her eyes remain looking down.

"Actually..." Sakura's eyes slowly look at us. "Hm? what is it?" I ask, taking a sip of my drink.

[Elecontrics store]
The four of us arrived at the electronics store, it was crowded as usual. "Where's the service support counter?" I ask as Sakura pointed out the blue sign that's hanging above the counter. "Oh."

We approached the service support counter. "Hello, how can I help you?" His face looks creepy. Sakura still seems nervous about something. I look around the man's counter desk as I see a promotional sign about a camera. But, what's strange is to see a camera pointing directly at us. Most specifically, Sakura. Are cameras supposed to be on?

Sakura gave her digital camera to the man who looks at it. "Ah, look at that. That's is no good. I see, it's a power issue. Yeah, it's no good." Sakura tried her best to keep eye contact with the man and shut her eyes. "Do you have your warranty? Your warranty..." This man sounds drunk but more creepy. They don't even sound professional.

"Did you bring the warranty with you?" Kushida asks as Sakura nods. Sakura gives the paper to the man. He looks at it. "Oh, it's within the warranty period. You could have the faulty art replaced free of charge." I look at Sakura to see her being freaked out. Well, it seems to be difficult for sakura to handle strangers. "Can you tell us how long it will take?" Kushida asks as the man looks at her. "Two or three days. Yeah, two or three." It takes that long to fix that faulty part?

He puts don a paper of the receipt of the item for repair. "Could you fill out this form? We need your address, name, and cell phone." Do you need the address for a camera repair? Can't Sakura just pick it up? Sakura's body seems to be trembling more as she picks up the pen. "Sakura-san?"

"O-Oh r-right.." She still seems to be having trouble writing as I look at the man who's tilting his head. This man sure gives the presence of someone other than a repairman. His body movement and voice just sound strange. Should I take the pen? I was about to make a move when Kiyotaka intervened. "May I?" He takes the pen out of Sakura's hand. 'When the repairs are finished, please contact me instead." He starts writing down his information. I look over at the man who is not happy with Kiyotaka's sudden action. "H-Hey you... The camera belongs to her, doesn't it?"

"The manufacturer's warranty confirms the location and date of purchase. You confirmed that warranty a few seconds ago. I can't imagine how there could be a legal issue." He said as I let out a sigh. "And since there isn't going to be any legal issues. I'll be the one to pick it up for her. If you want, I could bring her to verify that's her camera." I said as the man seems to not be happy with the outcome. "A-Are you sure?" He looks at Kiyotaka and me.

My eyes look at him, glaring. He suddenly flinched. "Well, I guess we'll do that, then." He takes the paper from Kiyotaka's hand. "Good. Let's go, everyone." Kushida nodded and they started walking away except I stayed behind for a moment, glancing at the man who is now a bit angry.

I should keep watch of Sakura till then. "Akiyama-san, you coming?" Kushida asks as I look at them. "Yeah." I catch up to them.

[Mall district]

We returned to the mall district, we walk back to the table with an umbrella and we took a seat. Ordering the same drinks that we have before. I look at the sky as the sun is setting. Kiyotaka folded his arms, looking at Sakura. U-Um... T-Thank you for your help today." She bows her head. "No problem. it was my fault, anyway! But, Sakura-san, You can talk normally with us. Okay?" Kushida said.

"Yeah, you've been using all formal language." Well, she is being respectful since we barely talk to her while we were at school. "U-Um... I.. S-Sure. I'll try." I take a sip of my drink. "If your alright then there is no need to force yourself," I said as she nods. "I-I'm okay." Kushida nods back. "One sec, okay? I'm going to freshen up." She waves at us, heading to the washroom.

This feels weird now, just awkward silence between the three of us. She looks at Kiyo and I then looks back down. "What's wrong, Sakura? Is there something you wanted to"

"Um... What do you both think would be the best thing to do?" Hm? The best thing to do huh?

"Does it regard about Sudo? Sakura, If you want Sudo to be expelled then do nothing. But if you don't want Sudo to be expelled then do whatever you think that could help him." I said as I look at Kiyo for his response. "You should do whatever you want to do." He said.

"Whatever I...?"

"What will you do then, Sakura-san?" I ask as she looks at me. "If I don't say anything, I think I'll regret it." She says. "You regret having a red angry bird student be expelled from violence?" I asked as she shakes her head. "Why are you telling us this?" Kiyotaka asks Sakura. "Your eyes weren't scary."

Our eyes? Well to me when I look at Kiyo, they look blank but a bit dangerous. And I have an urge to break that mask from his face. "Eyes?" Seems like he's confused by her words.

"What do you mean?" I ask as I tilt my head, a bit confused.

"I'm sorry. It's hard to explain..."

"If you need advice, Kushida would be more amicable." I look at Kiyo. "And this is why you don't have any friends," I said as I took a sip of my drink. "But you are my classmate and you're sitting across from me. And I have your contact information." He said looking at me with his expressionless face.

"Oh, that's true. I guess you have some acquaintances." Wait did he just call me a classmate? I guess I wasn't his friend after all. I turn to look at Sakura, "Besides, Kushida-san was here. Why didn't you ask her about it?" I ask as Sakura looks down. "U-um.."

"You said that you would regret it if you didn't say anything," Kiyotaka said and looks at Sakura. "I think that's the only answer you need then." Sakura seems confused.

"You know what people say in their motives to do something? Such as "For sudo", "For Kushida" "For my classmates", anything to give themselves some motivation to do something? Think about what's best. Don't focus on the reason why." She blinks. "W-What do you mean by not focusing on the reason?" She asks. "Throw away all of those thoughts, that's what she means," Kiyotaka said, finishing up what I was saying.

"Throw them all... Away?"

"People have some burden in their life, but you don't have to carry all of it. Remember, it was Sudo's behavior that got him mixed up on all this." I took another sip of my drink as it was about to be half empty. "You don't have to burden yourself with all of that. You should testify for your own sake. " Her eyes widen, her face seems to be blushing. "For my... Sake?"

"That's enough, right?" I ask since both Kiyotaka and my advice sucks. Suddenly she flinched by Kushida's arrival. "Sorry for the wait!" sakura had her hands clapped on her cheeks. "W-Welcome back."

'Well, I think we should call it a day?" Kushida ask as Kiyotaka sat up. "It is pretty late," he said as Kushida agrees with him. She seems to whisper him something. I look over at Sakura. "Don't hesitate and call me or Kiyo-Kun. He and I will be there to protect you if you need anything." I said as Sakura nods. "P-Protect me?" She ask and I stood up. "I'll come by to pick up your camera. Till then, see you later." I wave at everyone bye and I walk away from them.

Now, to summarize the entire day in two words. Protect Sakura.

[Miyako's dorm room]
I walk back into my room, closing the door behind me, taking my boots off, and setting them aside. "What a tiresome day." I took off my jacket and set it down on the bed. I walk to my desk, I look at the chessboard. I grab one of the knight pieces and move it close to the pawn. Looking at the board to see the pawn was knocked out from the enemy's pawn.

"I guess the enemy uses their pawns well. They would do anything to win." I collapse onto my bed.

"Why am I getting myself closer to Kiyo? Or my mind is slightly wary of him as if I been in that room? I shouldn't be feeling like this." I stare at the rooftop looking at my phone. I played the video where Kushida was threatening him. "His mask differs from Kushida. Why do I want to break it?"

—————
Chapter eight episode five-part one: Another Mask
To be continued.

Author: Weeeeeeeeee, episode five. We're getting to the Sudo testimony part. Also, I feel bad for sakura. You can watch the anime to see what happens with Kushida and Kiyo cause I'm just bored of rewriting the entire thing.

Also don't mind me for anyone who's good at chess. I suck at it. ;;

March 26, 2022
Words: 2400

Chapter nine: Testimony

[So in this chapter, probably expect OOC]

"Never complain, never explain. Resist the temptation to defend yourself or make excuses." ― Brain Tracy

[April 6th]
Miyako's POV

It was after classes, I was resting my chin against my right hand, looking at the window. It was a bit quiet since the rest of my classmates have left to do whatever they want to do. "A-Akiyama-san." I turn my head, looking at someone who called my name. "Oh, Sakura-san." She still seems a bit timid around me. "A-Ayanokouji-san sent me an email saying the camera has finished its repairs. T-They want me to pick it up at the store." Oh, so that's why she approaches me. I may have forgotten that I would go with her to pick up Sakura's camera. After all, we have two more days till the debate.

"Oh, it has been 2-3 days already?" I stood up from my seat. "Alright, let's go." I grab my school bag, wearing it as I walk to the door. Looking at Sakura. "You're coming?" She flinches a bit. "I-I'm coming!" She runs up to me.

I open the door and walk out of the class, walking beside Sakura as we head to the mall district.

[Mall district - Electronics store]
That was more awkward than I expected. We barely spoke from school. Never knew the school could be a little bit far from the mall district. "Hey, Sakura-San. Have we exchanged contact information yet?" I ask as she shakes her head. "I-I don't think so." Hm, I thought I did. I guess not, maybe it's the best time to exchange contacts. Besides, I think she already has Kiyo's contacts on her phone.

I pull up my phone. I notice Sakura took a glance what I'm looking at my Student ID with my points, my birthday, and my name. I swipe out quickly before she had a glance at my name. I look at the contacts. I tap to add the contact. "Here, put your contacts here. Contact me if you need anything." Sakura looks at me. "O-Oh, right." She grabs my phone, texting her contact information.

After she was done, she returns my phone as I grab it, putting it back in my school bag. "Great. Let's head to the service counter." I look around the area and saw the sign. I walk to the destination of where the sign that says service counter. It was the same man who is just looking at the pink camera. "Hello, sir." He flinches, his eyes looking at me. "O-Oh! You're the girl who came with that girl. D-Did you came here for the camera?" His eyes were looking around and he seem to be happy to see Sakura behind me.

How weird. He seems obsessed with that camera. "You seem happy," I said as he looks at me. "Oh you know, I'm happy that this camera seems to be easy to repair. Here." He gives the camera to me, I grab it and I look at it. Nothing seems to be tampered with. I notice the SD card seems to be pulled out like someone is suddenly rushing to put it back inside.

I look back at him, his body flinched at my gaze. I fixed the SD card as it snapped into the camera. "Here, Sakura-san." I give the camera to her as she takes it. "T-Thank you." She said and I look at her, I noticed a small smile. I turn back to look at the repairman. "Thank you for your work. You said the warranty should cover the false part so I would assume there would be no payment?" I ask as the man nodded. "Y-Yes. The warranty should cover everything."

"Good. Let's go Sakura-san." I grab her wrist, dragging her away from the repairman. "E-Eh?" She seems surprised by my sudden movement of grabbing her wrist.

[The direction to the Dorms]
The man is still creepy to look at. His speech pattern seems like he was shocked to see me along with Sakura. However, looking at Sakura that the man seems relieved. We have walked out of the mall and walked to the destination of the dormitory. "The sun is setting down. It sure gets late pretty quick, doesn't it?" I ask Sakura as she clings tightly onto her camera so she wouldn't drop it on accident next time.

"Y-Yeah. The sun is beautiful so it could be g-great to take a shot here." I look at Sakura, remaining in eye contact with her. "If you don't mind me asking, why are you wearing fake glasses?" I ask as she flinched. "Y-You noticed?" She seems a bit surprised by my question. "Yeah. I thought it was strange that you would be wearing one. There isn't any distortion in your lens. " I explain and she looks down, cutting eye contact with me.

"T-They well.." I may have asked the question a bit too early. "You don't have to say it if you don't want to," I reassured her and she only gestures a nod. "I-It's fine. Maybe later that I can talk about it. I-I will show one of my pictures to the debate." Sakura said. Looks like she is going to help Sudo after all.

"Alright. Remember, you don't have to force yourself to help Sudo." We both continue walking to the dorms in silence.

Why do I feel like someone's following us? It irks me.

Sakura's POV
We have reached the entrance to the dorms. "T-Thank you for helping m-me retrieve my camera. Akiyama-san." I showed gratitude to Akiyama as I bow my head. She shakes her head. "No need to thank me. We only went to retrieve the camera after all." She said we both walk inside the dorms. "I'll see you in class. I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable with my question a few seconds ago. Especially since we barely talked on the walk to the mall." She apologizes as I blink. Why did she need to apologize?

"Nono, it's fine. I-I have decided to help Sudo-Kun. Will you be there for the debate?" I ask Akiyama as she shrugs. "I don't know, it depends on the student council if they want an extra person to attend. Since there are four people such as Chabashira-sensei, Horikita-san, Kiyo-Kun as well and especially the victim, Sudo-Kun." She explains the people who would be attending.

"And you would be the witness so who knows?" She added another to her explanation. "I-I see."

"Alright, I shall return to my dorm now. See you later." Akiyama waves bye and walks away from me.

'When I look at her phone, she had her student ID out...'

'It didn't fully load in but it showed something unexpected.'

'Ayanokouji...'

'Akiyama-san. Who are you?'

[April 8th]
Miyako's POV

It is the end of the week. I turn my head to see Horikita staring at Kiyo with that facial expression. "What is it?" He asks. "Did you spend your day off with Kushida-san?" well that is certainly an unexpected question. "Yeah, because of the thing with Sakura." Kiyo answers as her facial expression barely changed. "Your jealous, Horikita-san?" I said, teasing her even though my teasing skills suck. Horikita shot a glare at me. "Was that supposed to be a joke? If so, it isn't funny." Well, I tried. "I'm sorry, forget I said anything." I immediately look away from her.

Kiyo blinks at what just happened. "Although, we couldn't get her word that she would share what she knows." He says. I turn to look at Kiyo. "Well. She will. 2 days ago, I have walked with Sakura to pick up her camera. She will come to the debate." I said and he looks at me. "I see." He turns his eyes back to Horikita. "What's the matter?" She remains to have that facial expression I can't describe. She always looks like she's irritated with something.

"What do you mean what's the matter?" Horikita ask. "Well, from the looks of it that you have quite the expression on your face. Are you worried about something?" I mentioned her facial expression and she didn't bother looking at me. "Really? I don't agree with both of you. This is how I always look." So you were born to be having that irritating face all the time?

"I am impressed by how self-serving you've been lately. You hesitate when I ask you for a favor. But when Kushida-san asks, you comply immediately." What is he? Your servant? Besides, He may just be acting like he's complying with Kushida because of that incident. "Isn't it because that one time you baited Kiyo and me to do your favor for you?" I ended up getting another shot glare from Horikita. "I said nothing." My eyes look back at Kiyo.

"As I was saying. I'm attempting to analyze rationally and carefully the factors that account for a difference." She turns to look away from Kiyo. "Well, it doesn't matter." She is observant of everybody. I wonder if she can reach my level, that would certainly be dangerous. "It doesn't?" Kiyo asks, looking at her still.

"What's more important is that the student council's picked the day for Sudo's hearing." Finally, some news. "So, when is this debate going to start?" I ask Horikita as she looks at me. "Today, after classes." Judging by her voice, I may not be coming in to observe. Since it would just be the student council, Class C, and her. Knowing Horikita, she may take Kiyo with her.

"Horikita-san. May I request that Akiyama-san participate in the debate?" I blink as I tilt my head in confusion. "eh? Why me?" I pointed at myself. "You were able to comprehend the situation around you just by observing. It would be best to have you around since you may be able to detect that someone is lying." He explains his reason for why.

"I'm not a lie detector, Kiyo-Kun. I'm just an ordinary student trying not to get involved with events like these."

"So, would you like to participate?" Horikita ask me. Darn, now I'm having eyes on me. If I say no then I might get a bad impression that I'm a rude student who won't help a classmate. Especially since I offer up my points to save Sudo from that failing grade. "Fine, I'll help. I guess."

What did I sign myself into?

[Student Council Room]
The student council present finished cleaning his glasses as he puts them on. He looks at us.

"We will now hold deliberations regarding the violent incident that occurred last Tuesday. As Student Council secretary, I, Tachibana will preside." The girl with purple hair said as she lowers her folder. As I was saying, I regret it. I'm in a room with the student council who tried to attack Kiyo and me. I can already tell it's going wrong because Horikita's brother is here, she may not be able to show her full potential.

I observe the area to see three injured students, they seem calm about the situation. They were acting like victims. I turn to look back at Sudo who is still irritated that he is being falsely blamed. Honestly, just by looking at this debate. Isn't worth my time. It's obvious who's the victim here.

I continue to hear the Tachibana, the secretary explain both sides' explanations. Of course, things weren't going so smoothly. "I'll admit that I hit them! But they're the ones who started it!" He points at them. "Sudo-Kun. I suggest you calm down. You're not showing the student council and the teachers here that you are being blamed here." I said as he looks at me.

"But Akiyama. These three idiots were the ones that caused this! They went up to me and were just jealous of what I'm a regular to basketball club!" I glare at him. "You're not a good job at it. Sit down." I stated as Sudo lowers his temper, sitting back down.

"Silence Please. Without new testimony or evidence. We will proceed under these assumptions. is this acceptable?" Tachibana asks as everyone remains silent. "It seems like there was no need for discussion." Horikita's older brother said, seems to be disappointed. "It's clear from the state of their injuries that the violence was one-sided." Can she even use her brain? One man against the three of them. It doesn't fit the evidence at all just by their injuries

"Horikita-san," I whisper trying to get her attention but she seems to be ignoring me, suddenly her face went pink. I saw Kiyo is just touching her side waist, ticklish much Horikita? She was trying her best not to be embarrassed. "Huh? Ay- What are you doing?" He doesn't stop however as I turn my face away. I was covering my mouth, my shoulders are trembling. What's this feeling?

"S-Stop it! H-HEY!" Kiyo isn't stopping. Although I get his motive. He was doing a strong physical stimulus that will snap her back to reality. He glanced at me as I try to not expose this emotion. I managed to calm it down as I remain to be a calm expression as ever. He stops whatever he was doing to Horikita, she steps away from him and her face is just so pink. "If you don't fight, we're going to lose," Kiyo said, I look at Horikita who seems to regain some confidence in herself.

After hearing the victim's testimony about Sudo's disruptive behavior and attacking them. Luckily Horikita managed to bring up the part about one man versus three. It is a disadvantage of Sudo. Especially since one of them is a veteran martial artist. Then she brought up Sudo's behavior. "Would the witness step forward, please?" Horikita ask as I look at the door slowly opening, it was Sakura but she seems to be scared of everyone here.

However, things with Sakura went a bit worst. The teacher in Class C is doubting us that we paid Sakura to make a false witness statement. "I-I do have proof!" The shudders were dropped, showing Sakura's pictures in front of everybody. And the picture of Sudo arguing with the students in the background while she was taking a selfie.

It didn't save Sudo's life as a student still. "As I thought, this was a waste of time. Everything you say is completely at odds. Which means that one side is offering false testimony."

"If I receive no proof or admissions of your guilt, by then I'll be putting expulsion on the table as well. That is all." Looks like we are going to have to bet the odds if we can win this.

[Outside of the student council's office]

"Do we have a chance?" Kiyo asks. I shrugged about the situation if we can win. "Depends on Sudo's disruptive behavior. We can't do much about it." I folded my arms looking at Horikita. "I don't intend to lose. I don't give up." Horikita walks away from us. "I'm sorry... I should have just spoken up from the start." Both Kiyo and I look at Sakura. "It isn't your fault, you tried." I tried to comfort her even though it may be the worst comfort words. "B-But I didn't have the courage."

She looks down as I see tears were forming from her eyes. "Hold your head up, Sakura," Kiyo said. We three turn our heads to the student council who has walked out of the room.

"You are still here." He says with a disappointed tone in his voice. "When you showed up with Suzune, I assumed you had some strategy in mind."

"I'm neither Zhuge Liang nor Kuroda Kanbei, I have no strategy." Did he just pull up a quote from the history books? He's good...

"So Suzune proclaiming his innocence, was he going rogue then?" Mister student council preside ask as I shrugged. "That was her words, we didn't do much other than snapped herself back to reality. Since your presence seems to be intense towards Horikita-san." I said, he looks at me. "Seems to be." He trails his eyes on sakura. "Sakura, was it?" she flinched when she saw the president walking closer. "Y-Yes.."

"If you can't prove it. It's just a lie. Your mask is nothing but a shackle." Ow, that hurt.

"I-I only told the truth." She stuttered out. "I believe her. Her words come out true to her testimony. There's no doubt about it." I said as the student council president turns to me. I step away from Kiyo. I can just feel something dangerous is going to happen. He looks straight at me.

"I see. You were the one that can simply be standing on the sidelines." He pushes up his glasses. "Hm? Sidelines? I'm my own person, a queen in a chessboard." I dodge his attack. I only tilt my head at the impact of the student council president's hand. Sakura and Tachibana flinched by the sudden action caused by the president. He leans closer to me with that gaze of his. "Can you prove it? That you have evidence for this case." I remain silent by his question.

"You're the same as Ayanokouji. Such as your facial expressions that barely change and that presence. It wouldn't stop me however from finding out your true intentions in this faculty. Your entrance exams were exactly like his but the quiz shows different. If grades won't suspect a person like you then I will do it myself." Wow, he believes grades show who the person is? Just getting a 50 out of 100 is not that bad.

"Why would grades show who they are? They are just mere letters of the alphabet. You shouldn't underestimate someone just by their grades. Horikita-Kun." I stated as he steps away from me.

"I will continue to watch you both closely." Creepy much?

He walks away from us, I look at Kiyo.

Can't I just live my life in peace? Chapter nine episode five-part two: Testimony
To be continued.

Author: Oh my. Looks like Sakura may be the first person to know about Miyako's "life". I wonder what will happen when she asked her about it. You should watch episode 5 for the full context of wut happened during that debate. Anyway. We're getting to episode 6. *

March 27, 2022

Words: 3116

Chapter Ten: Exposed

[Probably expect OOC in this chapter]

People will lie to get what they want. It could be anything that involves greed or just danger to keep themselves protected. However, they always cannot hide the truth forever.

[April 9th]
Miyako's POV
It is a hot summer day. Japan sure is famous for its climate weather. "It's hot here..." I look to see Kiyo is just trying to fan himself with his shirt. "It isn't that hot." I look at the staircases leading to the next floor. Honestly, what led to my lap to be some sort of place to put down his blazer? "Heat like this makes it hard to think rationally," Horikita said.

"Not sure if I can hear fangirls that have a crush on you can see you don't have your blazer on." I look at Horikita. "What you mean by fangirls, huh Akiyama-San?" She shot another of her glares at me. Kiyo looks at her as well. "No." Horikita turns away from him.

"Eh? A no?" I blink. Is the term fangirls a bad thing or is it just offensive to Horikita? "We're not here to joke around, Akiyama-San. Even though your jokes are the worst ones I heard. We are here to save Sudo. I do not plan to give up and I will never will." Hm, true words for someone who was spacing off because your brother was there.

"It would make it a perfect location to set up a trap for Sudo, I guess." Kiyo said, still trying to just cool himself down from the heat. I folded my arms, my eyes look at Horikita. "Have a solution or a clue to make up a good plan? Since you suspected that Class C is trying to blame Sudo." I ask her, she remains to look downstairs. "I'm thinking about it. Besides Sakura-san's testimony allowed us to delay the hearing. If we could only find something more decisive." I look around the area.

"Speaking of which, I notice there aren't any here." Kiyo pointed out something. "Security cameras huh?" I look at the corner where the camera was supposed to be there. I look back at Horikita "Why is this area have no cameras here? I thought the entire area of this school is just a camera zone." I questioned myself about the area.

"Maybe some areas don't need to be in security 24/7." Horikita turns around, approaching Kiyo and me. "If there had been a camera, that would provide definitive proof. "True." We both agreed with her statement. "Of course, if there had been cameras here. Things never would have come to this in the first place." She says looking around the area. But her eyes suddenly went wide.

We both look at her as I tilt my head. "What's wrong?" Kiyo ask. Horikita looks determined. "There's something I want to try," Horikita said, I blink. Wondering what got her to realize something.

[April 10th]
[Classroom 1-D]

I walk inside the classroom to see it was bare except Sakura is sitting there, alone. I approach her. "Hey, Sakura-san?" she immediately turns her head. "Y-Yes?!" I blinked looking down at her. "Morning." Yep way to greet Sakura, Miyako. Just a casual morning, nothing could make the conversation more awkward.

"Oh u-um... Morning." She sighs, looking down. "What's wrong? Is it about the debate?" I question her and she nods. "You don't have to testify today. Besides There is no need to be tense, right?" Sakura inhales and exhales her nerves. "R-Right." I heard the door opening behind me, I turn to whoever is there. "Oh, morning Kiyo-Kun." I greeted him and he looks at me. "Morning." He says with the usual monotone voice. "O-Oh morning Ayanokouji-Kun." Still nervous around us huh..?

"We might be able to save Sudo and everyone in the class. Sakura, you're the one who made that possible." Sakura blinks, she seems surprised by Kiyotaka's words. "We trust you." I said with a small smile. Even though it was fake...

Sakura looks up at us. "Remember, Kiyo-kun and I will be there whenever you need help." I reassured her and for once, I saw Sakura smile.

I walk to my assigned seat, so does Kiyo. "It isn't just us. I'm sure Horikita, Kushida, Sudo, and everyone in class trust you too." Kiyo says and he sets his school bag down. "Yeah... Oh u-um. There's been something on my mind. It might not be something I should talk to you or Akiyama-san about, but..." Kiyotaka's phone received a notification. He looks at it. "So?" I look at him, wondering what is it about. He looks at me.

Seems like it's ready.

Kiyo looks at Sakura. "Sorry, Sakura. I'd be happy to hear you out later if that's okay." Kiyo puts his phone in his pocket. "Me too." I head out to the door. I look back at Sakura. "Sure." She remains to smile still. I wave at her and head out of the classroom.

[The starways]
3rd Person POV

"So damn hot..."

"Why the special annex?"

"I wonder what Kushida-chan wants to talk to us about."

"Think she wants to ask me out?"

"Yeah right! You punk!"

Ishizaki sighs as he looks up at the next path of stairs to see a black figure standing on the middle path of the stairs, however, due to the shadow, they seem to be blocking whoever that is. The male in the front had a closer look. It was Akiyama, standing there with her hands behind her back.

"huh?" They look at the figure who's there. "Hello! I hope Kushida-san's message got to you." Akiyama smiles. "Or, you got my message." Her smile drops back to the calm expression face, her brown eyes looking down at them. "What are you doing here?" Ishizaki asks in a demanding tone.

"Kushida won't be coming." Ayanokouji approaches them from downstairs. "That email she sent you was a fake. He asked her to send it. And here you are, right into our trap. Like the little rabbits that have been caught by the foxes." Akiyama said.

"Why would you do that?" Ishizaki asks. "It was the only way we could get your attention, right? I wanted to have a talk with you." Ayanokouji had two hands in his pockets.

Akiyama continues to stare down at them. "Listen up. Sudo called us out here and beat us up. That's the truth. He should accept his punishment like a man. So long." Ishizaki was about to leave when he is being blocked by someone else, Horikita coming from the right side of the area. "Are you sure?"

He looks at her. Horikita's arms were folded. "If you leave here now, you'll regret it for the rest of your lives." She glares at them. The man with an ugly haircut seems to be annoyed. "What the hell is your deal?" however Ishizaki is ignorant. "Let's go, ignore those three." However, Horikita pointed out something. "What's that over there?" She turns her head, including the three boys.

"What are you talking about?" Their eyes widen when they saw a camera above Akiyama and in the corner next to Ayanokouji and the other one in the hallway, pointing to where Horikita's standing. Horikita leans against the wall. "What's the matter? You seem a bit shaken."

"A security camera?"

Horikita looks at them. "The special annex contains a science lab. There are many hazardous chemicals there. Why wouldn't there be cameras?" The three boys that have bandages look around the area. "H-How...? Wait a minute. If there's footage of us on those security cameras, They'd know you were innocent either way. You'd have no reason to tell us about it." Ishizaki is stuttering.

"When the moment that the incident occurred, both of the parties were doomed to suffer for it. You should have not done anything at all with Sudo. You know his behavior." Akiyama stated, still looking down at them.

"Regardless of why he did it, Sudo did hit you. That's an immutable fact." Ayanokouji said and Ishizaki looked at Akiyama. "So you'd be hurt by the camera footage too." Akiyama blinks at his response, her facial expression remains unchanged.

"Technically I'm not tampering with the evidence. All we're doing is just talking. We're not breaking the rules." Ishizaki looks at Ayanokouji. "Of course, Sudo will be punished as well. But you three might be expelled." They're shocked by the results of this trap.

"You told a malicious lie and got the whole school involved. What would you expect?" He ask and the red hairy boy spoke up. "Well then, why hasn't the school said anything to us?"

"This is an elite school. I guess that the school is testing us. Besides, we're high schoolers. Not elementary or middle schoolers." She answered his question. She glances at Ayanokouji. "They want to see if we can resolve the problem ourselves. So they're testing us to see what conclusion we reach after being granted extra time. When you think back on the hearing from yesterday, don't you think it felt like they already knew everything?" Ayanokouji explains as the red hairy boy falls to his knees.

"No way... I can't be expelled."

"Ishizaki, let's go tell them it was a lie. If we admit it, the school might let us off the hook!" Ugly hair man said.

"What're we gonna do, Ishizaki?"

"Shut up!" Ishizaki said. Akiyama's eyes were a bit dark. "Seems like your conclusion seems a little too hasty. You should think about it. Oh wait, we don't have enough time." She looks at the camera next to her and it's still on. "There is a way to save both Class C and Class D." Ayanokouji added.

"Like hell there i-" Ishizaki is interrupted by Horikita. "Just take the incident off the table. It's simple. If you just withdraw your complaint, It'll be like it never happened." Horikita stated. "No one can be punished for an incident that never took place. If we both tell the same story, the school can't pursue it any longer." Ayanokouji said. "There will be no consequences if you withdraw your complaint," Akiyama added to his explanation.

Ishizaki pulls out his phone. "Hold on a minute. Let me make a call-" Horikita takes it out of his hands. "Can't you decide anything by yourself?" Ishizaki tries to force Horikita to give back the phone but Horikita avoids his grip. "How pathetic." She said. Ishizaki grabs her collar with his other hand turned into a fist. "Going to use violence? Right here?" Ishizaki stops and looks at the cameras, it's still on. "Go ahead. Try it." Horikita temps him but Ishizaki lets go. "Damn!"

"Ishizaki, we've lost."

"Let's accept Horikita's offer... We can't afford to be expelled!"

Ishizaki finally gives up. "Fine. We'll take it back.

[Mall district]
Miyako's POV

After the whole plan went well, I pulled up my phone. "Sakura wanted to speak about something, right?" I thought. I tap on the contact to try and contact her. There wasn't an answer.

That's weird. She would usually answer...

I try to call Sakura again. I heard the line was picked up. "Sakura-San?" I only ended up having heavy breathing like she is running from something or someone. The call ended and I look at my phone, I saw an email "Akiyama. elp. I fel like I'ing folowed..." Huh? The message seems to be confusing but I can tell the grammar seems like it's rushed.

'Akiyama help. I feel like I'm being followed.' I read the message in a quiet voice. I tap my contact to call Kiyotaka. "Hel-"

"SOS." I said and I end the call, running in the direction where Sakura is heading at. Besides, I am just following the tracker which is weird. Hopefully, Kiyo can understand what I just said.

I approach a dark alleyway. I still had my phone out and I look around. It's Quiet. Lack of people...

I heard somebody and a female voice, I check my phone to see Sakura was in this exact area. I hid against the wall, peaking my head to see something very... Disturbing. I silence my phone and I prepared it on camera mode.

"Let me show you, my love!" This feels very disturbing to watch. After waiting for the right moment, I couldn't continue watching.

And snap.

"Ah. So I figure it was you. Your behavior was far unprofessional for an electronics worker and you were so obsessive with my classmate. You decided to finally make your move." I glance at the picture. "What a good picture. You'll be a celebrity on TV tomorrow." My eyes remain to be dark, glaring at him. The man stood up.

"Y-You don't understand. I'm just showing my love to Shizuku! A-And!" He runs to me and tries to snatch my phone but I step away. "I wouldn't want my wrist being touched by a filthy person," I answered.

"D-Delete It! It isn't what it looks like!.." I tilt my head at a certain angle, a strain of hair falls to the left side of my face. "What is it then? Even if I delete this picture. The security cameras over there caught every single action you did." I pointed at the cameras the stalker looked at the camera.

"Even if you did attempt, it is still a criminal act of an underage girl. It will go into your record, you'll lose your job, and the cons of being the center of attention are that they will go after your family. Knowing their son..." I approach him, grabbing his shoulder. He looks at me as his body trembles.

"That his life is a failure. No matter what you do to appeal...

You lost the most valuable thing in this world and its life ."

"You should follow what she says." Kiyotaka came with his left hand in his left pocket. "M-More witnesses?!" The stalker is more afraid. " Your life is over. " He said as the stalker pushes me away and runs past Kiyotaka who didn't even bother stopping him.

"Oh? You didn't think you could just run away after assaulting a girl~ You are dreaming." Ichinose said with a smile on her face, two security officers pin the stalker down. He started blabbering about destiny and love and just obsession...

"You're not my fan! I do not consider you to be a fan of mine. Never come near me again." She sure builds confidence with that stalker with those strong words. "You lier. No. This ugly b*tch tricked me!" He started yelling at Sakura saying she was ugly. Kiyo looks at her as I turn away. I couldn't stand to look at him. "That's enough." Ichinose said.

After things were handled. It was just Sakura, Kiyotaka, and I. "I'm sure Ichinose will see to the rest." Kiyo said as I let out a sigh. "I'm glad we exchanged contact information." Kiyo and I show our phones to see Sakura Airi's location. "So, that's how you knew where I was..." She looks down. "I'm sorry. I'm such a failure. I really couldn't do anything by myself." Sakura is apologizing once again.

"Being an idol brings its share of hardships, I guess," Kiyo says and I let out another sigh. "And this is why I rather not be attentive." I add, Kiyo looks at me. "What?" he approaches me and flicks my forehead. "What was that for?" I ask, blinking as I touch my forehead.

"Cause it's your fault that you were in the middle of this case that caused attention." He answered and looks away from me. "What? You wanted me to wait for you or something?" I didn't get a response.

I look at my phone, it was a notification of an email. I looked at it.

"Must be the teacher..." I put my phone back in my pocket. "I shall leave now. See you two." I walk away from them.

Why did Kiyo do that...?

What does this feel like?

[rooftop]
3rd person POV

"Sensei, may I ask why you call me up here?" Akiyama asks, Chabashira lights a cigarette and smokes away. "Let's talk about your work here. Akiyama-san, no actually... Ayanokouji-san." She continues to smoke away. But she doesn't realize Akiyama has this dark glare. "What about my work, Chabashira-sensei?" She asks, folding her arms.

"Your work such as getting 72-80 points. You are surely putting the wrong answers in long formulas while the others seem to be fine. However, that 50/100 entrance exam was quite suspicious." Chabashira explains, continuing to take in the view. "And your point is?" Akiyama questions.

"Simply saying, if you don't try your best to aim for Class A then I won't defend you in any circumstances. After all, you are so closed to Ayanokouji. Besides your "life" which I am curious about. What was the life that made you want to hinder your skills?"

"... Fine. I'll try my best to get to Class A on a certain occasion. However..." Akiyama slowly looks at her, her eyes were darkened. The shadow above her eyes.

"Don't try to pry into my life."

"Alright then, if that occasion comes by soon. I expect greatness. That is all. You may leave." Chabashira said and continues to do whatever he was doing before. Akiyama turns around, walking back downstairs as she passes Horikita.

[Hallway]
Ayanokouji's POV

I was walking by the hallway with windows on the walls. I am with Akiyama who was seen to be walking away from the rooftop. "It's raining," Akiyama said looking at it.

"Did you bring an umbrella?" I ask as Akiyama turns around. "Yeah. I figure it would be raining due to the clouds being dark." Akiyama said and I gesture a nod. We continue walking side by side until I saw Horikita's older brother.

"Class C asked to withdraw their complaint, and I accept."

I closed my eyes. "Did they? It's a weird world we live in, I guess." I said. Manabu looks at Akiyama. "Was this your way to prove that Sakura was not a lier?" Manabu questioned her. I open my eyes, looking at her. She only gestured a shrug.

"I'm only a knight on a chessboard. Besides your little sister should be the one to receive your compliment. I didn't do anything. Neither did Kiyo-Kun." Akiyama stated. Although she sometimes brings her words related to chess, I wonder why.

Then the unexpected offer came as Manabu was asking me to join the student council. "I refuse. I don't like expending more effort than I have to. The student council is out of the question." I refused the offer and Manabu looks at Akiyama.

"Same answer. Besides the student council would be like ordering me around. I do intend to live a normal life after all." Akiyama said her reasons.

It's strange. Her reasons are similar to mine. She wants to live an ordinary life, with no center of attention...

"Acceptable for now. Ayanokouji, Akiyama. Don't disappoint me." Manabu walks away from us. I was about to walk forward and stopped to see Horikita. "Oh, hi Horikita-San." Akiyama wave.

[Streets]
Miyako's POV

"..." Oh, well aren't we three walking just fine with silence? So who's going to talk first?

I look at Kiyo then Horikita then Kiyo. What should I talk about?

We stopped at the crosswalk, the light signaled red still. "It's nice that the plan worked out," Kiyo spoke.

"You both manipulated me, didn't you?" We both look at her. "What do you mean?" Kiyo ask as I thought about what Horikita meant by the term manipulation.

"Manipulated? You figure that on your own. I only gave you hints." I explained my reason why it isn't manipulated. Why did she think about something like that?

"Oh? Then Ayanokouji-Kun here pointed out the lack of cameras and led me to create that false evidence." Didn't he also try to help you as well?

"You're overthinking it," Kiyotaka said. "You made a promise that you'd help me reach class A," Horikita said reminding him of a promise. "Don't think I remember being in it," I added, Horikita looked at me. "Yeah, now you are added to it." I shouldn't have said anything.

"Yeah, after you forced me. And you just forced Miyako-san." Kiyotaka starts to walk ahead as Horikita grabs his wrist. I stood there, just the last one to go. I observed them.

"Wait. I am not finished yet. I want to know what you are thinking. Both of you." She looks at Kiyo then me, then her eyes revert to Kiyotaka.

"I want to live my days in peace. I'm sure Miyako will say the same thing. That's all." He explains to Horikita.

Why does he want to live his days in peace? Why did he attend this school in the first place?...

"You wouldn't help me if you wanted to." Horikita wouldn't just give up on his answer?

"I suppose I just wanted to help a friend." He still trying to get her to drop the subject.

"That's a lie. You never cared about your friends. Just... Who are you?"

... what's with today if everyone asks who they are? We're the same creatures. We're all human. Why ask people such as Kiyo and me who we are?

He remains silent for a moment.

"I will help you get to class A but..."

"But?"

Kiyotaka turns around, his eyes were dark, shadows above his eyes.

"Don't pry into my life."

Once he said that Horikita seems to be slightly trembling from that glare but she remains standing. I seem to be calm about it as I continue to watch them.

But those words, the glare...

Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. Who really are you? Chapter ten episode six: Exposed
To be continued.

Author: oh boy. So much action here... Such as Sae threatening Miyako to do her work with a lot of effort to show her talents, Kiyo suddenly flicking her forehead..

And the twin resemblance of what they said just now. ••

So before ya ask where's the white room scene? Eeeeee, I didn't wanna show it cause uh well, it was Miyako's POV so she wouldn't imagine herself being in the same position as Kiyo.

March 29, 2022

Words: 3743

Chapter Eleven: Summer vacation

[Yep. This chapter is OOC so beware]

This entire chapter is a beach episode. - scarlet

HEY YOUR NOT SUPPOSED TO BREAK THE FOURTH WALL MIYAKO!

Miyako: Off to the chapter.
Kiyo: *drinks boba tea*

[Summer vacation]
Miyako's POV

Yep, it's the middle of the summertime. And it's still hot like I am in a volcano even though I'm wearing white long sleeves and a black light jacket with blue jeans. "So, a question Miyako... Why are you in my room again?" Kiyo ask as I was aiming my face at the air conditional just trying to cool myself down.

"I have heard you are going to go to the pool. Some of our classmates are going except Horikita. I was going to just be in my room all day so I got nothing else to do." I answered and I jump onto the bed. "I only went to your room four times. It became a normal habit for some reason." I added to my words. Kiyotaka blinks at my response.

Yeah, it is weird that I would just come into his room without a problem.

"I am going with Sakura, Kushida, Sudo, and Ida and.." I glare at him, he immediately knew what I was gonna say. "Judging by your glare, I assume you know what would happen if those three are going to invite the girls. Especially with the girl's locker room." Kiyotaka explains and I lean my chin against my right hand. "Let's just give Horikita a call. I'm sure it will be fine if we explain what going to happen." I said.

Kiyotaka pulls out his phone. He taps the call button and I hear ringing but...

Beep.

Beep, beeep...

Here we go again but hopefully, she won't send emails like Kushida's incident. Kiyotaka tries to call her again around three times then the fourth time, she picked up. "Don't you know that when someone hangs up on you, they don't want to talk? What do you want?" Horikita asks over the line, she sure sounds like she's irritated about something.

"Hi, Horikita-San. Do you wanna go to the po-" she ended up hanging up before Kiyotaka can answer. I pull up my phone and try to call Horikita. "What do you want, Akiyama-San?" Oh, she answers my call the first time but not Kiyo's.

"Before you hang up on me. I heard Kiyo-Kun is inviting some of us to go." I said to her, she remain silent for a moment. "What a coincidence that Ayanokouji called me the same thing." But you didn't hear what he was going to say...

"That's freaky. Anyway, be sure to double-check yourself before heading out to the pool." I glanced at Kiyo who was just staring at me.

"Wait. What do you mean by that?"

"You'll figure it out," I answered as I ended the line. "You didn't bother telling her that the boys plan to put cameras in the girls' locker room?" Kiyo asks me and I gesture a shrug. "Boys inviting the girls out on summer vacation? It's stereotype.." I folded my arms, leaning against the wall.

"But what about me?" I look at him. "You're an exception. Besides I don't see you doing those disgusting things." I answered his question.

I look at him, top to bottom. Sure looks like a summer outfit. With the blue vest over a white shirt and brown pants. "You look great in those clothes. You always wear your uniform and that outfit we went with Sakura." Well, At least I tried to compliment him. But what's with the bag?

"Don't you always wear your uniform as well? I haven't gone to your dorm yet and it looks like you have two outfits with you." I felt like I got punched in the guts.

"Before we head out, I want to ask you something." I seem to get his attention on my question. "... In all your life, what color do you see the most? " He stood there in silence. Was my question unordinary?

"What do you mean?" Kiyotaka asks, I let out a sigh. "Nothing much. Just wondering since people always have a favorite color." I stood up from his bed. "Let's head out." I walk to the entrance door, opening it.

Welcome to summer vacation...

[Entrance to the Pool area]

"It's hotter than in Kiyo-Kun's room..." I mumbled as I raise my head to look at the sky. "Don't look at the sun." Kiyo said but too late for that. It was bright and I look back down. "Oh, Kushida-San, Sakura-san and.." I look to see who's behind them. "Horikita-san? I wasn't expecting you to join us." I said and she looks away from me. "Just because I'm going with you doesn't mean I'm here to have fun." Classic Horikita...

"Hey uh, where's Sudo-Kun and the other two?" Kushida asks. Now that she mentioned it, where are they?

"Yeah. I guess they were held up-" Kiyo was interrupted which coincidently timing since three of the boys have arrived. "Hey! Sorry, we overslept our alarms." But you walked from the entrance of the pool?

"You overslept? But the dorms are that way... You even came from the direction of the pool." Sakura pointed in the opposite direction. Sudo and the other two seem to be shaken with their foreheads sweating. "UH... Never mind what I said then. Let's go!" Yep, suspicious of them already...

"Oh! Hey there!" Ichinose was there with her other friends. "Gonna go to the pool too?" I stayed silent. Sudo, Ida and Yamauchi answered. "Yep! We are!" Ida said.

Why do I feel like this is going to be one messed-up day?

[Girls locker room]
(Or changing room)

I stare at the locker. What am I supposed to do with this swimsuit?...

I look around to see the other girls changing. Even Horikita talked to Ichinose about her appearance on her chest.

Can I just not go into the pool at all?

*Flashback*

"Why did you call me out here, Kushida-San?" I asks and she smiled at me. "I was thinking of going to the pool! I barely saw you doing something fun during summer vacation so I called you here to pick out a bathing suit!" I look at her and just blink. I had my hand touching my neck, rubbing it. "I guess. What do you wanna buy?" Kushida grabs my right hand and drags me to the clothing rack.

There are so many bathing suits and many colors...

"So, Akiyama-San! What's your favorite color?"

"Color?" I questioned about it as she blinks at my response. "You don't know what your favorite color is?"

... yep...

I nod and immediately Kushida grabs my shoulders, shaking me. "Eh?! You don't know your favorite color? What about ice cream? Do you have an ice cream favor?!" I didn't even bother getting ice cream.

"If I have to guess, probably vanilla." Kushida stops shaking me. "Vanilla huh? So it's either white or light yellowish color." Kushida goes to the clothing rack and pulls out one bathing suit from the hanger. "How about this one?" A bikini...

"Not sure because I don't want to expose my skin that much." I gave my opinion about it. Kushida puts it back. "Oki, how about a full-body swimsuit! It has a black skirt to go along too." 4500 points for that swimsuit and it looks like I'm going scuba diving instead of just going to the pool.

"I'll just take this one." I pull out a white swimsuit that has a hood attached to it. It was plain but whatever.

"Oki. How much is it?" Kushida looks over at the price. "It's only 2500 points since it's on sale. Let's go and buy these." Kushida grabs my hand and drags me again to the cashier.

I can walk on my own you know...

*flashback ended*

"Akiyama-San?" I snapped out of my thoughts and I look around, most of the girls are gone except Sakura who was right beside me. "Oh, Sakura-San. Sorry, I was just lost in my thoughts. What's going on?" I asked. Sakura seems to be trying to build up confidence.

"W-Well, you were spacing off and you barely changed." She answered, I turn to the locker. "Ah. Right. I should change out of these clothing into a swimsuit..." I took off my jacket and put it in the locker.

"Oh and... Akiyama-San." My eyes looked at her. "T-there was something I was willing to ask but the incident kinda made me miss my chance.." something? Oh right, she wanted to tell me something.

"What is it, Sakura-San?"

"... Uhm... Are you really related to Ayanokouji-Kun?"

Oh this question, again? Well, technically I have no memory of him being a relative. Nor I have seen him in that room. That man never told me about family relatives. Even though...

The pieces of the puzzle can be solved.

I do wonder why is she asking me this question when I have stated that we aren't related. "No. I have no memory of him being in my life. Why would you ask me this question?" I questioned Sakura, it seems like she is a bit scared to answer.

"W-Well... It's because... Your phone... Showed your ID and.." I felt like something like glass that is slowly cracking.

"I see. Anything else?" I took off my long sleeve shirt and set it in the locker. "I-It didn't show much but it showed your last name being Ayanokouji... I-If you are related to him. W-why would you hide your surname?.."

Calm yourself, Miyako. Calm yourself. Don't let that thing be unlocked. Don't let it out .

"As I said, I'm not related to him. Besides during that day, I may have accidentally switched phones with him." I said trying to just get her to switch the subject.

"O-Oh I see. S-So you were hanging out with him?" I nod at Sakura's answer. "Oki, I'll see you out in the pool.." She waves at me and leaves the area.

...

*Flashback*

A man was standing in front of me, his face was dark so I couldn't see his eyes. But I was holding his hand. "Miyako." He bends down to my level, having his hands on my shoulders. "When you attend that school, you will be "free" from that man. He won't ever go near you if you're a student in their school. However Miyako, no matter what. You must never tell anybody your family name. I don't want you guys to be captured that easily because of the attention ."

What do you mean by guys? Did you free someone else from that room?

"It doesn't matter. Hurry now. You will attend school early in the morning. There's a bus. I already filled in the paperwork. For now, your new name will be Akiyama Miyako. I hope in this school, you will find that shard that could fill the void."

*flashback ended*

"Akiyama-San?! Where are you?!" I heard Ichinose calling out. I closed the locker door as I'm already in my swimsuit. I pull my hood up and ran to the door. "Oh! There you are. Jee Kushida-san and the other girls were worried that you weren't coming out." Ichinose sighed in relief.

"I'm alright." I said, looking down. "Alright alright, let's go. The girls and the boys are waiting." She drags me out of the girls' locker room.

[Outside of the changing room - pool]

"Oh, you look adorable, Akiyama-san! Although why did you put on your hood?" Kushida asks as I rub my hand against my left arm. "The sun is bright," I answered, I look at Kiyotaka who was staring off to space.

"Sakura-san, you brought a rash guard huh?" Kushida looks at Sakura as she seems to be nervous. "I don't like showing much of my skin in front of people." why do I hear boys squealing in the background?

"Hm? Yamauchi-Kun isn't here." Kushida looks around to find him. I glance at the two boys beside Kiyo. What's the surprised face? And now they are acting where did he go.

"It's okay, it's okay! He probably just went to the bathroom." The bathroom for that long? Ike. I'm sure you will face the wrath of women soon.

Yep. I knew what was happening just by the boys' behavior. They act inappropriate and bad at acting their motive. "There's a volleyball court over there! Let's play!" Sudo pointed and just have a trembling thumbs up.

"Wh-Why are you freaking out about it?" Good question. Ichinose.

[volleyball area]

Yep. No. The other side was doing their best while I'm just standing there. "Hey, Akiyama! Would you help?!" Sudo asks and I turn to look at them. "Ah. Okay." I stood there In the middle.

"There!" The other side's team member hit the ball and I got hit to the head. I stood there as nothing happened then collapsed to the sand. "EH?! AKIYAMA?!"

"Hm, what's happening?" Ichinose asks and she turns around to see the bathroom just in a line. Ike blocks the other girls. "NO. SCREW THE LINE! FOCUS FOCUSSSSS!" Yep, you are doing a good job...

"Someone get Akiyama to get up! I think she's unconscious!" Sudo tried his best but it was to no avail. Kiyotaka and Kushida approach him. Kiyotaka bends down and has a stick with him. "Poke. Poke." He said in his usual voice as ever while poking my head.

"Why do you both sound so tired?!" Sudo shouted and kushida looks at him. "Don't raise your voice!" She scolded him.

My face is just stuffed onto the sand, I roll my face to look at Kiyo who's still poking me. "Wonder what got up to both of them.."I said, staring at the two who were just panicking about something. "Who knows? They must've eaten something wrong this morning." Kiyo answers.

[Few rounds later]
After a few rounds of just volleyball. Things got even more strange. Such as Ike suddenly had a stomach ache after Yamauchi came back. And now Sudo got a leg cramp.

And then a random speech about not giving up. Especially if the women are gonna stop playing. I was sitting out, just watching from the sides. "Please Akiyama-San! Please continue playing with us!" I stood up, I don't wanna get another bickering from anyone in the group.

Another round of volleyball, yep it's getting boring...

"You're both holding back." I blink at Horikita's sudden response. Kiyo and I look at her. "I'm not good at sports. I told you I may be a downfall to the club." I said, trying to convince her.

"I'm just not good at sports in general.." Kiyo added however Horikita isn't giving up. "You're both athletic. I have seen you two." I mean it's just a simple kick and Kiyo is just dodging. It's just sudden body movement.

"Why do you hide what you're capable of?"

Hiding my talents, huh?

"Are you annoyed? You really hate to lose, don't you?" Kiyo asks Horikita as she turns around. "Not especially."

"I think that's a good thing. Games are boring if you can't get invested in them. Getting a little emotional would help you make friends too." Oh wow Kiyo, you just gotta throw the part about her being unable to make friends?

"I do not need friends," Horikita said once again. "You're going to need some sort of help for you to get to class A." I said and she looks at me. She turns around, walking forward to the net.

I noticed Kiyotaka looking in some direction. I look at the window to see some guy waving white and red flags. "Kiyo-Kun. What are you doing?" I ask, leaning closer to him, looking directly at his eyes. "If I say nothing, would you believe me?" He questioned.

"According to the guy. Draw attention from the changing room. Student council president, Ryuen and others." I repeated what the flagman was saying.

"I won't do anything. Do whatever you want to do, Kiyo-Kun." I step away from him. He blinks as he continues to look at me. "You think I was gonna threatened you?"

"No. I guess not." Kiyo said and he looks at Horikita. "Hey, Horikita. I need your help with something." Quite direct...

[The pool area]

"What's up with Horikita-San?" Ichinose asks, a bit confused.

"I have the same question," Kiyo said, I folded my arms as I stayed silent, knowing if I make an action. I may ruin the plan.

Horikita inhales and exhales. "Let me start by saying... We are year one, class D. We're known as a collection of defective students. We're made up of problem children. We're foolish, and we fall for the plots of other classes very easily. Students of Class C, it was bold of you to try and sabotage us before. But right now, I feel grateful to you. Thanks to you, I now understand the difficulty of aiming any higher in a class full of problem children."

Wonder how the other Class D classmates are feeling after Horikita called them problem children.

I continue to listen to her. "But the classes from A to D aren't necessarily separated just on superficial academic and athletic ability. This means that even the failures of class D can ascend to class A. We can make it to class A. We will make it to class A!"

Good speech, Horikita. Now the entire crowd is cheering. "So, it went as you planned?" I ask Kiyo as he nodded. "I guess he escaped." He answered.

[16:03 - pool]
"Utterly ridiculous. There really were cameras set up in there." Horikita said as I heard Kiyotaka sigh. "Never expected you to help out. Knowing them, they would do it anyway." I said as I open out my palm, just slowly playing with the water such as swaying it left and right.

It's cold.

Horikita folded her arms, looking at Kiyotaka who would just be a part of the plan. I let out a sigh, continuing to sway the water left and right. "Instead of hearing out from Kiyo-Kun. I decided to help you a bit. I did give you a clue." I reminded her about it.

'That's freaky. Anyway, be sure to double-check yourself before heading out to the pool.'

"Thanks for that dumb hint. It didn't even make sense." Horikita said and I blink, looking at her. "I did say double-check. And we are girls so we are just checking the girls' locker room to see if it's bugged free." I explain to her what I meant.

"If I had tried to stop them, they might have tried to do it behind my back. It was better to let them try and fail." Kiyotaka said. At least he tried to defend himself.

"You may be right." Horikita agreed with him.

"They planned to set up the cameras, then retrieve them after the pool closed and everyone was gone but..."

"We could stop the peeping if I just removed the SD cards in advance."

"That was the plan, at least. The interference of the other classes made things more difficult."

"Especially with the student council president and class C to be there, that made the plan go 5x difficult," I said, pulling my hand out of the water.

"Is that why you had me give that attention-drawing speech?" Horikita asks looking at Kiyotaka. "Hey. You did well, for a loner." I said as Horikita looks at me with that glare. "Everyone appalled. Sudo and the others were moved to tears." Good point Kiyo.

"More importantly, did you both enjoy the pool?" Now is it the right time to ask us how did the pool event go?

"Didn't like it. I would rather be in my room." I answered, I look at Horikita. "I didn't come here to have fun. Besides I like being by myself." Classic Horikita...

"I see. There is still time until the pool closes." I look at Kiyotaka. "Wait a minute." I stood up. Unfortunately, he pushed Horikita in as I got caught up in it. "Kya!" We both fell in.

We both swam up. "What are you doing?" Horikita asks in demand. I swim closer to the poolside. "Sorry sorry." He apologized and offer his hand out.

Too bad for him.

I pulled him into the pool as he splashed, the water hit Horikita however. "Good payback, Akiyama-San," Horikita said. I turn to look at her to just see her hair is blocking her face. "Ah."

"Hey let me join too!" I heard Kushida splash water at Horikita. "Kushida-San! We aren't playing-" and then she got another water splash at her.

I stood there beside kiyo. "Did you have fun?" I ask him. I didn't get a response from him. And then we ended up having a light splash from Sakura. We both turn around. "S-sorry.." Sakura slowly descends the pool.

I look at the water, showing our reflection. "We do look alike. Huh.." I mumbled. "Hm?" Kiyo looked at me. I shake my head. "It's nothing," I said and look at the clouds.

With these constant questions, the speech pattern...

—————
Chapter Eleven episode seven: Summer vacation
To be continued.

Author: Eyo. I hope you liked this chapter, I wanted the twins to have a break so here they are having a bit of fun. I even try to add some wholesome events, I tried tho. But ey, flashback andddd we got a beach episode. The next chapter will be the island exam. Of course, I'm gonna be changing it up a bit with added noncannon events.

March 30, 2022
Words: 3650

Chapter twelve: Beginning of vacation

[Mmmm. Prob expect OOC in this chapter]

To do something out of somebody's will. You must use your words to try and manipulate them. Then you can use them as mere puppets to get what you want.

[July 19th - the night before the island exam]
[The Theaters]
Kiyotaka's POV

What a strange meeting place. I entered into a play about Icarus. A play about Ancient Greek mythology. I descend the stairs to see Chabashira-Sensei sitting there in the middle, her arms folded.

I approach her seat, "This feels like a waste of taxpayer money." I said as I sat down one seat away from her, my eyes looking at her. "A few days ago. A certain man contacted the school." A certain man?

" 'Expel Ayanokouji Kiyotaka and Akiyama Miyako.' He said." Chabashira-Sensei said.

I figured that he would try to get in the way.

I closed my eyes. "I wonder what that could mean. I don't know who that person is but you know you can't expel someone without a reason." I mentioned the rule about exposition. However...

Why does that man want to expel Miyako as well?

"Naturally. So long as you're a student here, the rules will protect you. Of course, if you cause any trouble, that's another matter altogether." I opened my eyes, looking at her then I look at the play. "Sorry to inform you but unlike the arrogant Icarus. I don't pick fights with the sun."

"Your intentions aren't a factor. If I decide you're a problem, that's what you are." Chabashira-Sensei said, still watching the play. "Are you threatening me?" I ask her. It does sound like it.

"I'm offering a trade." I look at her. She got my attention now if I want to keep my freedom. "If you attempt to reach class A, I'll cover for you unilaterally. A good deal, don't you think?" She explained her trade.

"It's out of the question." I stood up, I was about to walk away but I turn back to look at Chabashira-Sensei.

"Then I'm afraid, Ayanokouji. You and your only connection to society will be expelled and you'll lose your freedom." My Connection? I'll lose my freedom?

I grab her collar, Chabashira-Sensei remains to have her arms folded, looking at me. My eyes were darkened but I remain calm. "You call yourself a teacher?" I ask her, I didn't show much of how I'm feeling.

"Make your decision now. Will you try for class A or be expelled along with her?" She glares at me. The spotlight slowly turns off, I let go of her collar.

"You may come to regret trying to manipulate me."

"Don't worry about that. Akiyama knows about this warning. She already has agreed to try her best to reach class A. After all, my life is already full of regrets." I remain silent after Chabashira-Sensei said, I turn away from her. Walking out of the theater.

I walk outside of the room, looking at the sea. I let out a sigh.

Throw away my freedom to protect my freedom.

What did Chabashira-Sensei mean that I'm going to lose my connection? A man calling to try and expel not only me but also Miyako.

The pieces are slowly fitting the puzzle...

[The next day - July 20th]
[Speranza: Middle level - resident area: Akiyama Miyako room]
Miyako's POV

"So, we are on a ship and it's inconvenient that my room is across from Kiyo-Kun's room.." I look at the chess pieces I have brought onto the ship. I place them on the bed stand. One Queen, eight pawns, and one king. It's such a shame I couldn't bring the entire set. I knocked the pawn out. "... That one won't be useful to me anymore." The pawn slowly rolls to the edge, it drops to the floor.

I wonder why are we on this luxury ship...

I heard banging on the door. "Really?" I approach the door, opening it. "ELLO AKIYAMA!" Sudo suddenly grabbed my neck, hugging it tightly. "What...?" I look at him. "You been spending time in your room! For whatttt? Let's go and hang out. It's a school vacation!" Why is he so happy all of a sudden?

"May I ask why you wrapped your arm around my neck?" I ask him and he looks at me. "Well Horikita-san may have helped us but you should receive some credit too." Is this an operation of trying to get a girlfriend?

"Judging by your motives, I guess you are trying to get yourself a girlfriend?" I ask, Sudo suddenly backed away from me and his face was sweating pinballs. "W-Well! Not really.." I approach him slowly. "You sure?"

"Oki if you don't wanna hang out. That's FINEEEEEE!" He immediately runs away from me. I blink at the empty hallway. What just happened?

[Pool area]

Well, what ended me being dragged by Sudo and the others? Especially Kiyo who's there. Here we go again, What's with everyone and pools?

Besides the girls, the boys are dressed in summer attire but I was wearing my school uniform without my blazer. Is it weird? Yeah. The boys in this group except Kiyo kept asking me to change...

I sat on the side, my legs were sitting in the water. Watching Kushida having fun with the other student. "Okay! Up we go!" She hit the beach ball up into the air. I glance at the boys who were sitting in the shade.

"Hey, Akiyama! Watch out!" I blink and I see the beach ball up to the sky. "Hm?" I felt the ball bounce off my head. "Ah." I blink and turn to look at the ball that's on the ground. "Sorry about that! My aim could sometimes be bad.." Kushida apologizes as I look at her. "It's fine." I forgave her for that.

I look over at the boys to see Ike standing up and his sunglasses were off. I wonder what are they gonna do this time?

Kiyotaka's POV

Ike is going to try and confess his feelings for Kushida. "Ike..." Sudo looks like he's about to cry. He looks at me with full determination. "Go on." Ike smiles. "Okay! Here I go!" He steps out of the shade, asking Kushida for something he wants to talk about.

I look around to see Miyako on the side of the pool, just sitting there. "Ah. She's looking at us." Sudo and Yamauchi look at Miyako. "She must be looking at us. That gaze of loneliness!" Yamauchi said as Sudo looks at him. "Isn't it because she's wondering what Ike doing?"

"Shush Ayanokouji! Don't ruin a man's feelings!" Yamauchi pointed at me. I look at Kushida who steps out of the pool to talk with Ike.

"Oh, he's doing it. Let's go!" Sudo stood up, running to get a closer look. Yamauchi and I followed him as we hid beside the staircases. This seems to be a bad hiding spot but Kushida isn't looking.

Kushida seems to be wondering why did Ike want to talk with her. Although Ike seems to be stuttering. "C-Can I call you by your given name?! Kikyo-Chan?"

Kushida smiles. "Sure! Can I call you by Kanji-kun then?" She accepted that. Then Ike falls to his knees and screams her given name. "That bastard. He pulled it off!" Yamauchi said as he isn't happy with the results.

All he did was use her name...

Suddenly my shoulders were grabbed by Sudo. "Ayanokouji!" That was a sudden movement so I am quite surprised by it.

Sudo's face is blushing. "S-So! I was wondering! What's Akiyama's given name? Or Horikita's given name?" Why is he asking for two girls?

"Huh? Why Horikita and Akiyama?" I ask but he started to lightly shake me. "Tell me Horikita and Akiyama's given name right now! I don't know much about either of them but Horikita saved my idiotic self from expulsion and Akiyama seems to not be annoyed by my actions! Even if I have pushed her away!" That's his reason?

"Akiyama's name is Miyako and for Horikita, I think it's Suzune.." I answered his demanding question. He lets go of my shoulders. "Suzune... Miyako... It's cute. I like it. OKAY! I'm going call them by their name too!" He coughed a bit.

"S-Suzune. M-Miyako. Hey Suzune, may I speak to you? Miyako, may I hang out with you?" He did the peace signs. I don't know why but something tells me I should punch his guts. I look down to hear Yamauchi repeating Sakura's given name.

"What's gotten into them?" I ask myself, I felt someone tap my shoulder behind me. I turn around. "And what's gotten with Sudo calling my name?" Miyako is there, standing behind me. She didn't show much of her expression, is she angry?

Sudo ran past me and grabs her hand. "Oh Uh MIYAKO! Do you wanna go to the restaurant?" Miyako blinks at Sudo's sudden question. "No thank you. Also, I would like to request for you to not call me by my given name. The only one that can do that at the moment is Ayanokouji-Kun." She denied his request. I feel bad for him. I think.

"Eh?! You call him Kiyo and suddenly speak in a formal matter?!" Sudo ask I noticed she seems to be getting a little uncomfortable. "Is it not alright for me to call him formally?" I push Sudo away from Miyako. "Ow!" He hit his head against the railing.

What was that? My body moved on its own for some reason...

"What was that for?!" Sudo asks as I glare at him. "I think Miyako is getting a bit uncomfortable around you. She would appreciate it if you would stop calling her by her given name till she allows it." I explained my reason why I pushed him.

I turn to look at Miyako. "Are you okay?" I ask and Miyako nodded. "I am. Thank you for that. I'm going to leave you guys alone now." Miyako turns around, walking away from us.

Why did I do that? Miyako can handle herself.

[Speranza: Middle level - resident area: Akiyama Miyako room]
Miyako's POV

I got back to my room, closing the door. I approach my bed and I climbed on, laying down. That was weird. Sudo suddenly trying to get up close and personal even calling me by my first name...

Although, it is strange. Kiyo suddenly pushed Sudo out of the way. It seems... Out of character for him to protect someone like me. He knows I can handle myself.

I look at my phone, the email was sent from an unknown. The sender must be Chabashira-Sensei. "A few days ago, a man called to expel you and Ayanokouji. Of course, It won't work without a reason. I hope you will try your best to reach class A." I finished reading the email and I set my phone down on the side of my bed.

That man...

It better not be him. But, something else got my attention. How did that man know that I attend this school? There wasn't much attention to cause that man to know I'm here. Unless...

I look at my phone, I grab it to look at my student ID. It loaded, showing my profile and my full information.
————————————————————————

Student ID
ID: S01T004751
Miyako Ayanokouji
『 Ayanokouji Miyako 』
Birthday: 10/20
School: Advanced Nurturing High School

Points: 126,814

————————————————————————
My school ID. The school system registers me as Ayanokouji Miyako. My biological name. But on test results and paper, it's named Akiyama Miyako.

Of course, it was because of government reasons that I had to fill in my biological name. When I entered this school...

flashback*

That's strange. The principal called me up here. On the 3rd day of school? Upperclassman said that nobody has ever been called up to the principal's office. I knocked on the door. "Ah. Ayanokouji-San. Please come in." I heard a man's voice. I opened the door, coming inside. I closed it behind me.

"I have heard that you rarely call students up to your office. Why does a director such as yourself call me up?" I ask as the director was looking out the window. "Out of all of the students, only two students didn't evaluate. You may be the so-called average student, especially with those 50 out of a hundred in the entrance exams." I tilt my head to the left at a certain angle.

"And? What's the point of calling myself an average student? I just want to live an ordinary life." I said, the director turns his chair around. He had a USB drive and it was attached to his computer, showing all the files of the student.

"What's more strange is the paperwork showing your entire history is normal yet you seem... Abnormal. An unordinary teenager in an advanced high school." The director said he shut his computer. I stare at him, my gaze was turning to a darkened one. "I have records of other students. Which is how they were able to enroll in this school. Such as their history and the past." He explains about the USB drive. The room is getting tenser...

"It's more strange that a director such as yourself is sharing sensitive information with someone like me? That's a risky move, Director." I said, he continued to look at me.

"And it's strange that someone like you is hiding your biological name. Your teacher informed me if your paperwork was written wrong or... It was a false one." I look down from him, I remain calm.

"I request for the 3 school years I would like for my surname to be hidden. I am Akiyama Miyako." I stated my "name". The director chuckled nervously.

"Alright then, Akiyama-san. However, the school system registers you with your biological name. It's the government's rules. Now I will ask you this question. Why do you hide your surname? And do you know that there is someone with the same name as you?" I remained silent, I continue to look down at the ground.

"The first question of someone having the same name as me. Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. If you are going to ask if we are related. I have to say no. I have no memories of him in my lifetime. Nor he does remember me either. Who knows what will happen in this class year? But, on the 2nd one..."

I look up at him. "I ask for you to don't pry yourself into my life, " I said and he let out a sigh, turning to look back at the window. "You may go now. Thank you for answering my questions. Akiyama-san." I bowed my head, turned around, and walked out of the room, shutting it behind me.

I walked past the white hair girl as I continue on my way back to class.

*flashback ended*

"... Tch." I sat up from my bed, I crawled over to my bed stand. I grabbed the pawn that was on the floor and put it back on the Board.

It's too early for you to be disposed of yet.

I lay back down on my bed. I felt a bit tired. Maybe a small nap will do...

After some time has passed. I heard two voices as I sat up, walking to the door. I poke my head to view the window that's on the door. I saw Hirata chatting with Kiyotaka.

"I'm about to hang out with Karuizawa-san and the gang. Want to come along?" Looks like Hirata offering Kiyo to go with him for socializing event?

"Karuizawa? I'll pass. I'm not especially close to her and her friends." Hm? Didn't he try to make some friends at the beginning of his first year? He chose strange ones like Kushida who threaten him that he "raped" her and Horikita who always pushes him away and...

Those three idiots.

"It might be a good chance to get to know them, then!" There was some silence between them. "Hey, Ayanokouji-Kun. The truth is, there's something I wanted your help with."

"Help?" Hirata nodded. "Could you help serve as an intermediary between Horikita-san and me? I think that if we want to unite Class D going forward, she'll be an integral player." So he asked Kiyo for advice or help on how to communicate with Horikita? Oh, it's simple really.

Just say you'll help her get to Class A and that's one easy way to get her to communicate with you.

"After all, they say she's the one who proved Sudo-Kun's innocence. If we could work together..." he couldn't finish what he was going to say since he got interrupted by a phone call. "Don't you have to answer?" Kiyo asks Hirata.

"Sorry. I guess I'd better get going. If you change your mind, just call me okay? And if possible, can you pass my message onto Akiyama-san?" Kiyotaka nods. "Sure. I'll pass it." Hirata smiles and he waves bye. He answers the phone "hello? Sorry.."

I open the door. "I have heard. My answer going to be no." I answered as I lean against the wall. "I did see you through that window. So you heard the conversation." Kiyotaka said and I nod. "I had a quick nap..." I look at the hallway.

"You seem to be lost in your thoughts. Is something the matter?" I ask Kiyo and he looks at me. "Oh. I was just thinking about the recent events." Recent?

"If you don't mind me asking, what is it ab-"Kiyotaka's phone starts to ring. He pulls it out of his pocket, he looks at it. "Horikita is calling me. I should probably answer it since it seems unusual for her to call me."

"Oh. It's fine. I'll just continue taking a nap." I wave bye-bye and closed the door behind me.

[Night - the observation area]
I wanted to get some fresh air so I have exited my room and out to the observation area. I see Sakura leaning onto the fence. "And that's what I was wondering... so? W-would you u-um... d-d-da?"

I approach her. "Sakura? You were wondering about what?" Sakura turns around, her face flustered as she had a quiet scream by surprise. "What's wrong?"

"E-eh?! H-how long have you been t-there? A-Akiyama-san?!" I blink, tilting my head. Why is her face so red like a tomato?

"I just got here," I answered her question. "Did you hear? Did you hear what I was saying?"

"Would you believe me if I said I wasn't here?" I ask as she turns around, she covered her face. "I-It's not what you think! It's j-just... I was trying to p-practice h-how to.. c-c-c..."

"Confess?" I ask since she is stuttering a bit too much. "Y-YES! Akiyama-san... I need to know... I-If Ayanokouji-Kun will accept my confession!"

. . . .

"... Eh?"

Sakura turns to me, she grabs both of my hands and folded them together into a ball. "Please! I need to know... I-I been in love with him since... I don't know. My heart races when he's around a-and I don't know what to say towards him."

"Uh... I'm not the best perso-" Sakura's eyes were about to form tears. "It's just... You have been with him since the first day of school, right?.. You know him better than anybody in the school." I don't wanna break Sakura's heart but I doubt Ayanokouji had feelings towards anybody.

Although... That strange action he did earlier in the day.

Yeah. No. I'm not dating him. It would feel absolutely weird. There are other reasons.

"I think you need to hang out with him more often. From what I heard, people confess their love if they know the other's life. You shouldn't ask me about him. You need to build your relationship with him before we go into that path." I said my advice, it may be a piece of bad advice.

"I see... thank you." Sakura lets go of my hands and I blink. "I shall head to my room. Good night." She walks away from me, waving me goodbye. "Night.."

I should probably head back to my room too. Is it bad I don't feel that tired?..

[The next day - July 20th]
[Speranza: Middle level - resident area: Akiyama Miyako room]

I stare at the roof. I heard an intercom turning on. "Good morning students. We hope you'll take the time to observe this highly significant scenery."

I sat up. "Highly significant scenery?.." I got up out of bed and I pulled the window curtain, the sun blinded me for a moment. "... It's just the ocean. Maybe I should head to the deck."

I look at the window, showing my reflection. I still look tired, my hair is just simply styled bedhead. I look at the outfit. Just simply a white sleeping dress.

I let out a sigh.

[The Speranza - Ship deck]

After viewing the scenery, it seems like an island. Everyone was gathered up and we were all wearing our gym uniforms. I was standing behind Horikita.

It was expected, after all, this entire luxury ship doesn't seem to be just a vacation. Chabashira-Sensei walks up to the platform. Looking at everyone in the class. "As we prepare to arrive at the island, we will give an explanation of what to expect. Until then, wait here."

"Were you in your room?" Kiyo asks as Horikita seems to keep rubbing her left arm for some reason. "Yes. I was reading. It was extremely engaging but as we weren't allowed to bring personal belongings, I won't get to finish it."

Chabashira-Sensei pulls up a wristwatch. "Your school IDs will be confiscated. In exchange, you'll wear these wristwatches. Those who take them off without permission will be penalized."

"They're being especially careful. As if they're on high alert."

"Yeah. They wouldn't be going this far for a little fun on the beach." Kiyo said, I folded my arms. "It was expected. All classes are boarded on this ship after all. And luxury places..." I added to their conversation.

The teacher in class A introduced himself. He explained that this island will be a special exam. We're all going to be living as a group on the deserted island.

Kiyotaka and Miyako's monologue

Vacation's over, huh?

—————
Chapter Twelve episode Eight: Beginning of vacation
To be continued.

Author: •• Looks like they both are slowly getting to more clues on this entire story so far. Such as Kiyo's brother instincts kicked in. I like to thank one of the people for letting me use their idea such as the principal conversation. Mister S.

MrS_S_AA

But Lemme warns ya. This island exam may not be the same as the cannon so there will be minor changes. Just a fair warning. Such as learning more about Miyako's life in the white room. Such such...

I like to thank you all for reading this book by the way! I wasn't expecting many people to read this one since it's just an oc placed in the COTE world. Thank you again!

March 31, 2022
Words: 3895

Chapter Thirteen: The game has started

[Beware OOC moments. Probably.]

Observation and communication is the key to winning this game. Anyone playing this game will do anything to win.

[August 1st - The shore]
Miyako's POV

After the announcement of the survival exam. It was clear that we have a week to live off the deserted island. For some unknown reason, the school gave us two and a half weeks to prepare ourselves so I've been hanging out in my room. Just waiting...

We got off the boat that transported us from the luxury ship. All of us are wearing our tracksuits. I see two bags, blue bags in the box with supplies and two boxes. It seems that the supplies could last the entire class for a week...

Hirata has this survival manual that has information about the island exam. "Okay, let's review what we know. The school gave us two tents for eight. Two flashlights, one box of matches, a backpack of amenities for everyone here, sunblock for the women..." Hirata reads off the information.

The students here seem to be a little worried about the survival test on a deserted island for just a week. However, my eyes were focused on looking at Horikita who seemed to be cold.

"We have to survive outdoors until noon seven days from now." That's the point of the exams right? To survive this island.

Hirata explains that our S points will be added to our class points. He also added to his explanation about the list of points that we may lose such as illness and serious injuries, pollution of the surrounding environment, absence at morning and evening roll calls, and violence against or stealing from other classes.

My eyes continue to look at Horikita who seems to be paying attention to Hirata reading off the book. "We can get more points than each time we secure certain spots around the island, we get bonus points."

"So the theme of the special exam is "freedom to choose," Kiyo says and I look at him. "To choose what? Burning the forest or causing harm to other classes?" I ask since I don't think this is freedom since we are limited to do things, especially for someone who is ill. "It's reasonable, it's like the laws that are outside of our school. We aren't allowed to kill." Kiyo answers.

"It seems so. If we do this right, we could close the distance to the upper classes." Horikita said and looks at the wristwatch. "This thing is so restrictive."

"But there's a penalty for removing the watches without permission. There are hidden sensors and GPS built into them. So they can send aid immediately in an emergency, I guess." Kiyo explains about the wristwatches. So it's like an Apple Watch? This sure is a rip-off brand.

I look at the group who seeks to be debating on getting a toilet just because women can be quite uncomfortable doing their business outside. Yeah, I can tell those girls can't handle living in nature...

"It might be hard for women," Kiyo says and I sigh. "It seems to be so. Some girls can't just handle living outside. You can tell they're always in their homes spending money on beautiful items." Kiyo looks at me. "Didn't you spend some of your time during the summer vacation in your room?"

...

"Ah. Right. I did." I facepalmed myself. I should have not said that.

[Forest - resting for now]

Ike, Sudo, and Yamauchi went off on their own to find a suitable campground. I'm not going to be surprised if there are snakes here.

Horikita and Kiyo seem to be conversing about the island exam. I let out a sigh. "Horikita-San. Will, you be alright, though?" I ask since she still seems to be cold.

"What do you ask? If class A and class B are focused on taking the spots, we should do the same." Horikita said as I let out another sigh. "We should think rationally. We need to have a plan first if we wanna take the spots." I said and I looked at Kiyo.

"Aiming for a higher class sure is tough." Horikita looks at kiyo. "Look, do you both even want it?" I look at Horikita. "Want what?" A guarantee of the job or university you want. I'd assume anyone who came to this school did so to guarantee that privilege." Horikita said and I folded my arms.

"I think I have said that I only came to this school to just feel free," I answered my reason why I'm in this school. Kiyo stayed silent.

We all decided to take a break at the moment. The worst part is... We spent our points on a toilet nobody has bothered using. That's kinda dumb all for discomfort.

Hirata reasoned with everyone that it could cause stress or just an uncomfortable place to be in the forest. Especially hygiene issues. "It will give the girls some peace of mind as they engage in this test too," Hirata said and looked away from him. It seems reasonable since you can't technically break logic in this world. It's not a fantasy game...

Hirata announced that we should find a camping spot. There were a few hands but then Kushida wanted to come along, then everyone started to raise their hands. I raised my hand as well, and I looked at Kiyo. It's unexpected for him to volunteer.

"Coming?" He asks Horikita as she looks away from him. "I'll pass but you and Akiyama are volunteering? That's a surprise." Horikita said and Kiyo started walking away from her. "Not taking a role makes you stand out from the group."

Yeah, he's right. I rather not have people looking at me that I'm not helping out the class. It would be a bad impression.

I saw Sakura's hand being raised as well. Are you kidding me..?

"Great! We have 10 people so let's proceed in teams of three. Ayanokouji-Kun. You may add Akiyama to your team if it seems uneven. She seems to interact with you more than everyone here." I am right here you know.

I look at Kiyo as he nods. "Okay."

[Group three - Ayanokouji, Akiyama, Koenji, and Sakura]

Koenji kept jumping from place to place on trees and just laughed. "Ah, beautiful! Conducting myself in the midst of nature, I am truly beautiful! This is the ultimate beauty!" Ah Jeez, is this man always obsessed with beauty?

Did he do this on the ship and be like Rose from Titanic?

"... Is this man a monkey?" I kept trying to catch up to him from below but his athletic skill is amazing. He doesn't even hesitate if the branches may break due to a human's weight.

Kiyo seems to catch up with me first then Sakura does. "It's hard to walk in the forest, huh..." Sakura is out of breath trying to catch up to us. "It's also hot on top of that. Will you be alright, Sakura?" Kiyo asked and Sakura nodded. "Yeah. I'm just fine..." she answers, I turn to look at Koenji who's still jumping from one tree branch to another.

"Miyako, Sakura. Let's pick up the pace." Kiyo ran past me as I follow him. "R-right!" Sakura tries to catch up with us. "Koenji-Kun I-is amazing."

"NO MERE FOREST CAN STOP ME!"

I continue to look up. "How about a wildfire?" I ask since he did state no mere forest can stop him but he seems to be ignoring me. "Is it that fun to climb on the trees, monkey?" He stops, just hanging with the jungle vine.

"So mean. Dollface." He said, I continued to try and catch up to Koenji. "Ah. He called me a doll face..." I said pretending like I feel offended. Kiyo looks up at Koenji. "Koenji, Don't go too fast or..."

"No need to worry. A forest like this is no problem!"

"What's that supposed to mean?" Kiyo asks. "Kiyo, you shouldn't try to talk with him, he may just throw another of his self-compliment words about a mere forest being so easy for him." I sighed.

"Heh. As long as it's during the day, there's a low chance of getting lost while wandering in a forest like this one. That's why it intrigues me." He continues jumping to another tree branch and just having fun with himself.

"He keeps moving faster..." Kiyo stops and tries to call out to Koenji. "Just go without me. I'll try to catch up to him. Go with Sakura." I ran past him but Kiyo grabs my wrist. "You may get lost. A forest like this is huge." I blink, is he caring that I would get lost?

"I-It's fine!" Sakura said, still out of breath. "I'll try to find him. I may see you guys on the way back if I lose him." I let go of his grip and continued running to try and just get to Koenji.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

I jinxed it. I shouldn't have said anything. I turn around to look who's behind me. It seems like I could be a bit far away from Kiyo and Sakura...

I sat on the ground, leaning my back against the tree stump. "Lost sight of him. Seriously, how does a human-like himself have so many kilometers per hour that he is flying through the air..." I let out a heavy sigh.

I heard ruffles and I turn to look at the right side. "Ah. Kiyo-Kun and Sakura-San. You caught up to me." Kiyo looks at me. "Did you find him?" He asks, I shake my head as a no. "He's too good. Not even my stamina capabilities that I can catch up to a monkey-like him." I look at Sakura.

"At how many kilometers per hour was he flying through the air?" Kiyo asked and I shrugged. "Probably about 20 Kilometers. Considering we can only catch up to him with 9 Kilometers per hour." I answered with a guess judging by the speed that Koenji was doing.

"Wow... Do you think this is a spot?" I turn my head, there's this huge cave from a distance. "It looks like it." Kiyo answers. "A huge cave? Quite inconvenient." I said as I stood up from the ground.

"Sensei did say that each time we have possession of a spot that we earn one bonus S-point. Although we can't spend bonus points during the test period. So they will be added to our class points after this exam is over." I explained it like what Chabashira-sensei would.

"Were you acting like sensei?" Kiyo asks and I look at him and then look back at the cave. "Maybe?" I answered, and I noticed something was up about this area.

This seems like a dead giveaway and it would automatically show who is going to be class leader, and this seems to be a wide area that any class besides ours can take.

I glanced at Kiyo. Sakura was about to head out to look at the cave. Kiyo grabbed Sakura's wrist and covered her mouth, jumping into the bushes. I jumped into another bush, hiding. My eyes were focused on the cave. I noticed a big buff man walk out of the cave with a green card.

I couldn't see much due to the tree and a few more bushes blocking my view of vision but hopefully, Kiyo will inform me about it later.

"We got lucky huh, Katsuragi-san? Securing a spot this early." The other guy approaches behind him. "Lucky? I had my eye on this before we made landfall. It was inevitable that we'd find it. Also, be careful what you say and do." Katsuragi said as the man next to him nodded.

"We don't know when or where others might be listening. Take care to avoid even the slightest mistakes. As a leader, I have a responsibility to manage you."

That's a bold statement, you said to be cautious of someone who would be listening and then announcing to the forest that you are a leader.

"Before we docked, the boat did one lap around the island from the distance. That was a hint."

"A hint?"

"From the deck of the boat, I could see the paths cut through the forest. From there, it was just a matter of finding the shortest routes."

"You could see what the school was trying to do? Brilliant as usual."

"Sakayanagi won't have much to say to that, will she?"

I continued to listen to their conversation, this entire conversation seems strange. But, Sakayanagi? Now, where did I hear that name from?

"Quiet down, Yahiko." I noticed Katsuragi is slowly approaching the bushes. The worst part is, that's where we are at. What to do? I have limited space and I can't run.

Katusragi searched the area where Kiyo and Sakura are at. He found nothing, then he approached where I was. I heard the bushes ruffle and he searched the area.

"It's nothing. Let's move on. We shouldn't stay here long." He walks away from the area as I sigh in relief. It was pure luck that I didn't get caught. "Miyako, are you alright?" Kiyo asked and I stood out of the bushes. "Yeah. How about you?" He responded with a nod then I looked at Sakura.

"Are you ok-" I stop to see her face was red like a tomato. "Sakura?" Kiyo and I asked at the same time, then she couldn't stop squealing silently and then collapsed onto the grass.

"I-I'm f-f-fine..!" I bend down to her level. "Do you need help? Do I need to carry you?" I asked and Sakura immediately sat up. "No no, it's fine!" Sakura said. What's with her?...

The three of us got out of the bushes and walked towards the cave entrance. Kiyo pokes his head to look inside. "Those two were from Class A, weren't they?" Kiyo asks as I nod. "What made you assume that?"

"I saw them at a restaurant when Ike and Sudo were being quite disruptive." Kiyo answers and I let out a sigh. "Was it a 1st class restaurant? If so, I feel bad for you since you four would be out of place there." I said and Kiyo blinked. "I guess so." He says as I walk inside the cave. Sakura followed me in.

"Y-Yeah, They must be in Class A," Sakura says. I look around the cave to see a green tablet with some sort of card scanner. There was a countdown of 7 hours and 55 minutes and it's claimed by A-Class. Of course, it says that it's occupied.

"H-Hey, Ayanokouji-Kun and A-Akiyama-san. Does this mean that guy was their leader? I-If so w-we just learned an incredible secret, huh?" I turn to look at Sakura. "It's strange," I said and Sakura blinked, confused about what I meant.

"W-What do you mean, Akiyama-san?" I shake my head. "It's nothing." I look at Kiyo. "I'll report it to Hirata later." I nodded in agreement and followed him behind.

[Forest - resting area for now]
We got back to the area where Horikita was sitting on a log. "Koenji-Kun got ahead of you?" I let out a sigh and nod with disappointment. "He is way fast. Not even Kiyo-Kun and I can catch up to him. He can be a reincarnated monkey..." I said and folded my arms, looking around the area. "That guy is beyond my power to keep under control. I'm sure you're aware of that." Kiyotaka said.

"Good news, Everyone!" I turn to the source of the voice. Ike-Kun and the others found a spot at the head of the river. Let's meet up with them!" Hirata said. "Head of the river huh?" I mumbled to myself. "Hm?" Sakura looks at me. "Let's go, Sakura." She nods at me as we follow the group to the new camping spot

[Class D - Camping place]
First, we arrived at the new camping area. Ike who was shirtless came out of the river. "Here it is! The spot we found!" I look around the area. It sure is a beautiful place. I can see why he is so happy to find it. The rest of the class scattered to explore the area. Even some students such as Hirata are complimenting him.

I noticed the small device and I nudged Kiyo's right sleeve. "I may have found the leader spot," I whispered as he looks over at the direction I'm pointing at. "So that's it. Only the leader of each class can take possession of a spot." He whispered to me and I nod in agreement.

Everyone gathered up together as a group, they were discussing who should be the leader so they can take this place as a base camp. The ladies are voting for Hirata but Kushida spoke up about her vote. We all went into the bushes to discuss.

"I've been thinking about it. People like Hirata-Kun and Karuizawa-san stand out, whether they mean it or not. But the person entrusted with the role of a leader needs to be someone responsible, right? I think the only person who meets both requirements is Horikita-san." Kushida explains her reason for who should be the leader.

Honestly, I don't think it's a bad idea but...

"I'll do it," Horikita said as Sudo smiles. "Alright! I shall go inform the senseis!" Sudo runs off to go to the sensei-tent area to inform their leader.

Later, He got the green card and gave it to Horikita. Everyone was surrounding Horikita so hopefully, no other classes were looking at the leader area. After it scans, we are occupying this area for 8 hours.

"Well, it looks like we got bathing and water fine!" Ike said they approach the river however Hirata seems to doubt about the river is okay to drink. The rest of the girls agreed with Hirata's girlfriend. "What's wrong with you guys?" Ike ask. I folded my arms. "The water is purified if you just boil it enough. It will kill the bacteria." I said as the girls who were complaining about the water looked at me. "You sure?" Have you been listening to biology lessons?...

"Let's calm down everyone, let's not think hasty. We have choices so there is no need to rush." The girls sigh and walk away from the river. I noticed Ike seems a little down. "Ike, do you have experience outdoors?" Kiyo asked.

"I used to go camping with my family when I was little." Ike takes a scoop full of water with his hands. "I have no problem with drinking river water." He drinks it. I let out a sigh. I should probably help out with setting up tents.

I approach the group. "Are you having trouble?" I ask as they nodded. "Yeah. Come help us out, Akiyama-san!" I grab the tent bag and started setting it up. The other groups are grabbing food and building a campfire and the others are just helping out with assembling the tents.

After some time, the camp assembling is going quite well. Hirata walks up to me. "Hey, Akiyama-san. Could I have a moment with you?" I finished hammering down the nail that's attaching the wire from the tent. I look at him. "I'd like you to find some branches so we can use them for a campfire before it gets dark." I nod and I saw Kiyo carrying some bushes.

"Oh. Ayanokouji-Kun!" Kiyo looks at him. It seems to be the same conversation with me. "Okay. I'll find some." He said.

Looks like we are going to collect sticks...

"Wait! It could be dangerous going alone." Hirata said and Kiyo looks at him. "You were talking with Akiyama just a moment ago. I assume she is going with me. I'll find someone else too." I stood up, dusting off the dirt that was on my pants, and ran to catch up with him.

"Hey, Horikita-san. I don't mean to be rude but should you help out as well?" Horikita sighed, her arms still folded. "Hirata seems to be relying on you and Ayanokouji. It's pathetic." She said and Kiyo puts the bush leaves down.

"Why don't you help out a bit? "Leader"?" Horikita remains silent and crawls to the girls' tent. "But we are gathering branch-" She ignores me. Well, as usual, she is stubborn. Kiyo looks at Sakura and Yamauchi. They look back at us.

[At a random forest area]
What got me to be placed with four of them, especially one who seems to be whispering to Kiyotaka about something. We all are collecting the branches.

"Sakura, boys sure are idiotic. Right?" I spoke. At least that's what I'm going for. "E-Eh? Akiyama-san. T-That seems to be a little harsh. Especially towards A-Ayanokouji-Kun." I tilt my head. Yamauchi looks at me. "Hey! That's rude to say to us boys!" I blink.

"You shouldn't blame her, Yamauchi. She's trying to break the silence." Kiyotaka said and Yamauchi looks at him. "Jee, what's with you? You seem to be defending her." He is right about that. Kiyo seems to be a little... Protective . Is it just me?

After collecting the branches, we four of us heads were heading back to camp. I was walking behind Kiyo as I'm just hearing Yamauchi trying to flirt with Sakura such as trying to help her carry branches. I bump into Kiyo.

"What's wrong, Kiyo-Kun?" I look over what's in front of him. A student with some Cerulean Gradient hair color. An injured one she seems bruised up and her fingers. I look above her head. Something tying to a branch?

"OI. What's wrong?" Yamauchi ran towards the student.

Something's not right.

Kiyo grabs his shoulder, dragging him back. "Oh... Nothing." Then why would you yank him away from the student?

After checking with the student, her name was Ibuki. We took her back to Camp.

...

We headed back to camp safely, Ike showed the other students how to light up a campfire and Hirata was explained on points. I was sitting near the campfire and I was just enjoying my peace when I heard Sudo yelling.

"Are you kidding me?! KOENJIIII!"

"How can he do this?"

"He's so selfish..."

Kushida came running by. "What happened?" The boy next to Hirata answered Kushida's question. "Koenji said he wasn't feeling well and went back to the boat!" Really now?

"According to the rules, Class D will lose 30 S-points. Koenji-Kun will be out of the game and required to stay on the ship to recover." Hirata explained the situation to the entire class.

I let out a sigh. It had to get worst for this class, right..?

Seems like this game is...

—————
Chapter Thirteen episode Nine: The game has started
To be continued.

Author: Oh jee. Writer's block is slowly hitting me. As you may have noticed the end of this chapter seems to be rushed. ;;. I'm sure the next chapter will be some non-canon scenes so be aware.

April 2, 2022
Words: 3886

Chapter fourteen: Scouting

[Beware. There may be OOC moments. Yes I am going to keep this warning in every chapter.]

In this world, every human needs some sort of social in their life. Especially being around other people to aid them such as an assignment or life in general.

[Island Exam - Day two]
Kiyotaka's POV

I sat on the left side of the river bank. Just watching Miyako trying to catch fish with her hands. Miyako managed to get one but it slips away from her hands as the fish dived back down to the river.

"Miyako. You won't get any fish if you use that method." I said and she looks at me. "Well, I tried anyway. I'm not like those people in the stone age. It's such a shame that I don't have a harpoon."

"Isn't that like a weapon?" I ask as Miyako bends down, trying to catch the fish but of course, it always slips away from her grip. "I guess. In the past, people would use that as weapons. Too bad its purpose was to kill whales." She said. I look at the river, showing my reflection.

*flashback*

The room was white, some kids are around 8 years old. They all were dressed in white, surrounding me. I continue to work on the problem that is being shown on paper. Everyone around me is just focused on the single equation, most of them are struggling with it.

A man approaches me. "Kiyotaka." I stopped writing but I held onto my pencil. I look up at the man. "Remember this. To have power and fail to use it is the behavior of a fool"

*flashback ended*

"Kiyo-Kun." I look up to see Miyako holding a fish. "I got one. It's tiny but I'm sure we can cook this." Seems like Miyako trying to not have the fish slip out of her hands again. "Oh, good job. You managed to get one." I said and I look at the fish that is just struggling to get out.

"HEYYYY!" The fishes that were in the river swam away by someone's voice and it slipped out of Miyako's hands once again. "Ah. It fell again." Miyako sighed and stepped out of the river. "We caught some fish!" Sudo is carrying a net full of fish. The others came by with fruits.

I look over at the group that is assembling with supplies such as a water bottle, fruits, and fish. "Good work everyone," Hirata said. "Hirata, what should we do next?" Sudo asked. Hirata looks at Sudo, "Could you two get the fire ready?" He ask and they both agreed.

"Anyone who's not busy with other tasks, help us collect drinking water!" Hirata said and the other girls surrounded him as they were waiting for Hirata to pass the water bottles.

Hirata Yosuke. Class D's leader...

"... Do you wanna go, scout, the area?" Miyako asks, I look at her. "Sure. Let's bring Horikita." I noticed Miyako seem to be unsure of my answer. "Is something the matter?"

"Oh, I'm just wondering if it's the right decision to bring Horikita-san in." Miyako said as I stood up from the ground. "It will be fine," I said and I head out to find Horikita.

Miyako seems to notice it as well.

[Recon - Ayanokouji, Akiyama, and Horikita]
Miyako's POV

Unexpectedly, class B has invited us to look at their camp. Aren't they worried that we are going to guess who their class leader is?

I walk behind Horikita as I continue to observe the area around me. It's just trees, bushes, and... More trees.

"It's rare to see you taking initiative like this," Horikita said. Is it unordinary for us to go visit class B?

"It's not like I have nothing better to do. This passes the time. Kiyo says as he puts the notepad back into his pocket. "I don't mind doing recon, but I'd personally rather avoid unnecessary movement. I don't want to waste stamina wandering around without a clear goal in mind." Horikita explains how she feels about this whole recon deal.

"I understand how you feel but staying shut up inside won't change the situation." Why do I feel like Horikita got a little triggered by that comment?

"Kiyo-kun is right. Staying coop up in the tent won't change your surroundings." I agreed with Kiyo's comment. Although, I think I made the situation worst.

"I have my reasons why I'm always in the tent." Horikita said as I let out a sigh, I folded my arms. "Sure sure."

"Besides. It's clear they've placed a target on your back." After he said that, I was confused about the situation.

"Wait what? Who? When did Horikita become a target?" I questioned Kiyo and Horikita about it. "Some people in class C approached us and judged what Ayanokouji-Kun said. They have indeed placed a target." Horikita rubs her upper right arm.

"Oh. I see." Now things just got even more worst...

[Class B - camp]
They chose an ideal spot. Unlike ours who's in the shade all the time. This is like some sort of beach. Class B seems to be handling it with ease. I covered my eyes from the light. Has it been that long since I been out in the sun?

Ichinose is walking with us, showing Class B's camp. "There's plenty of fruit in the forest, and we can probably catch fish in the ocean. We've got the waterfalls for freshwater too!" Ichinose said and I look at Horikita.

"As usual, class B never fails to impress." It's far more disciplined than I imagined." Horikita complimented them. Let's talk about class C then. The horrible class...

I noticed Kiyo is looking at his left side. I turn to look who is he looking at.

Ichinose laughs. "It was hard at first! But we rigged a few things up and now we're making it work." I turn to look back at Ichinose.

"Ichinose-san, is it safe to assume that our relationship is one of cooperation?" I thought we were here to see their camp, not set an alliance...

"Sure! That's how I think of it." The other student came by to ask Ichinose what to do next. "Oh well, I'd better get back to work! Come back to visit soon, okay?" Ichinose walks away from us.

... That was easy.

"It's an upgrade from class D in every way. I have to admit that."

"Then would you like to change your goal to aim for class B?" I asked Horikita but I ended up having Horikita shoot a glare at me. "Sorry about that." Now I know why Kiyo doesn't wanna continue the conversation.

[Class A - camp]
Horikita tries to look at class A's camp to see what's going on. Unfortunately, it's being covered by a curtain. "What do you see, Horikita-san?" Horikita let out a sigh and looks at me.

"We can't see what's going on inside from here." Horikita answers as Kiyo stood up. "Let's go have a look."

"Wait Kiyo-kun. It would be a bad idea. We shouldn't be scared of class A but I doubt they would let us in." I said, and he looks at me. "We can't afford to be initiated just because they're class A. But we won't know the outcome if we didn't try."

Good point...

"What are you trying to do? There's nothing to be gained from revealing ourselves." For once, I agree with Horikita's statement.

"Skulking around here won't get us anywhere, either," Kiyo said. Looks like he is trying to convince us to go.

"Fine." I stood up looking Horikita. "Let's go." I follow Kiyo from behind as we walk out of the bushes. We approach the green hair dude who's defending the camp.

"What do you want?" He asks. Guess this guy would be Yahiko. "We came here to scout you out. Do you have a problem with that?" Horikita looks at the curtain that's hiding the entrance.

"How very underhanded. We're going in." Horkita tries to go in but she ended up being blocked by Yahiko. "Hey! This place is occupied by class A. You're not allowed in."

... I expected this to happen.

"Oh? You've taken occupancy of this spot? But the rules have stated that I am not allowed to claim the area but it doesn't say I have the right to go inside the place that has been occupied. You said it yourself that you took this spot so I can't use it. What you're doing is monopolization. I think maybe you're the ones breaking the rules." Looks like Yahiko is giving up on trying to get us to enter.

But, he isn't alone.

I was about to speak up till the buff man walks out of the curtain. "What are you doing?" Yahiko started to freak out a bit. "Katsuragi-san!"

"I don't recall giving you permission to invite visitors." I folded my arms looking at Katsuragi. "I just want to see what's inside. I can't imagine how that's against the rules." Horikita said.

Katsuragi looks down at her. "Go ahead and look then, but be prepared for consequences. One class occupies one spot and they protect it until the end." I started hearing footsteps as my eyes look to the right. There were class A students surrounding us holding sticks.

Ah, sticks... 11 people against 3. That's foul play.

"If you try to break this unspoken rule, it's best to avoid that sort of trouble. Besides, if you want to see what's in our camp then you will show yours." Katsuragi folded his arms. Yeah, I knew this outcome would happen.

"Horikita-san. Let's go to class C." I spoke to try and distract the situation. Katsuragi looks at me, "You should follow what your classmate says." He said as Horikita sighed, she walks away from them. "Let's go." She said and I follow her behind

[Class C - Camp]

... What is going on in this area?

"Kiyo-kun. Are you sure we're in the right area?" I ask as he checks the notepad. "Seems to be right." He answered. "Then why are we in a class full of people screaming joy and there is a jetski?" People in this class were having fun, such as drinking, jumping into the water, and just laughing.

"You've got to be kidding me. What is Class C thinking?" Horikita seems to be disgusted by this. I look at the man with an ugly hairstyle approach us.

"Ryuen-san wants to see you." He said, I turn my head to see a faded red hair color male just being served by the other classmates. What are they? Slaves?

"Hey." Ryuen turns his head, looking at us. "You seem to be living the high life." Horikita folded her arms, looking down. Can't blame her though, I wouldn't keep eye contact with him either.

"Oh, we are. It's our summer vacation and we're going to enjoy it. Right?" The three boys who were kneeling to him were stuttering to reply. "Y-Yes, sir..."

"When a leader is incompetent, it ends up hurting those beneath him." Horikita continues to speak as Ryuen takes a sip of his drink, then dumps it to the student saying that it's warm.

Why do I feel like the atmosphere is so tense...? I just have an urge to punch this man. Treating people like crap.

... no, I should not let it out. Don't let that monster out.

I remained calm, staring at Ryuen. "For just 100 or 200 class points, you people will endure starvation, heat, and exhaustion." Technically we are under the shade so we aren't suffering from the heat.

"Just the thought of it makes me want to laugh." Horikita lets out a sigh. "I was a fool to come here on my guard." I did say that Class C is the most horrible class out of all of us. Probably due to them having a horrible class representative.

"Who's the fool here?" He sat up from his deckchair. "Is it me or you?" His servant brings his drink, looks like Horikita's words made him angry, or was it his usual face? "This is the way I do things. There can be nothing more or less." Horikita sighed.

"I see. Do as you wish then. This is the best for us anyway." She turns around, she was about to walk away but stopped.

"Oh, there's one other then I wanted to ask. You know Ibuki-san, don't you?"

"She's in our class. What about her?"

"Her face was swollen. What happened to her?"

"A ruler does not need disobedient servants . I just issued an appropriate punishment." He eats one of the skewers. "You used all your points on the first day, didn't you?" Horikita ask.

Ryuen agreed, "That's right. I used all of our points. So no matter what happens to Ibuki, I have no worry about losing any points." He seems confident in his words. After all, the rules have stated that even if you did spend your points, you won't go to the negative zone.

Am I disobedient since I didn't bother following orders to stay in that room?

"A simplistic way of thinking. You've wasted all the class points we've been offered." Ryuen throws the metal stick that is used for skewers to the table. "Forget all that and come play with me. I'll prepare a special tent for us." Ryuen is taunting Horikita. But...

I forgot this feeling, what is this? The urge to punch his face? I want to do it. I want to throw him in the sea. Just so he will feel fear. The king will eventually lose the authority of his kingdom.

I shouldn't release it. It will make me lose. Those "emotions" are useless.

I felt someone pinching my arm, I snapped out of reality. I turn to look who was doing that, it was Kiyo. "Let's go Ayanokouji-kun and Akiyama-san. This place is making me more sick." Horikita said, walking away from Ryuen. Kiyo grabs my wrist. Wait, what's with the sudden close contact? Kiyo drags me away from Ryuen.

"Suzune, be sure to come back and visit if you want a little fun. I'll give you a real taste of heaven." Ryuen said, yep Horikita is disgusted by it. I felt nothing after that. Nothing. Should I care about his words? No. He's just taunting us.

[Forest]
"Absurd isn't it? Their self-destruction actually benefits us." Horikita said and Kiyo agrees with her comment. "You need to conserve wherever you can, or you won't last the full week." I stopped.

"I doubt they want to do that. After all of that, spending their points down the drain. It just shows that they are going to do what Koenji did and act like they're sick so they can spend their summer vacation without a problem." I express my opinion about the situation, Horikita stops as she turns to look at me.

"He's not planning to last the week. it's simple, what Miyako said is that they'll do what Koenji did. They just have to claim they're sick or they can't handle the stress or some other reason then drop out then they can all return to the ship and enjoy their summer vacation." Kiyo explains. Clever as always, Kiyo.

"You mean he'd given up on the test itself from the start?" Horikita asks as I nod in agreement. "Kiyo said it before. The test is about the freedom to choose in every sense of the term. So they can spend their points and not give a care about the exam."

"Ryuen's approach may be one correct answer." Kiyo said, "A risky one." I added. "It's beyond my comprehension." Horikita turns around, walking away from us. Leaving Kiyo and me alone.

"Zero point strategy huh?" I look up at the leaves that were illuminating the sunset. I was about to follow Horikita but I felt my wrist being grabbed and yanked back.

"What?" I ask as Kiyo lets go of my wrist. "Miyako, are you okay? Back in Class C, your fists were clenched on the side." Why is he asking that I am okay? He's not the person to care for anyone.

How did he notice though? My facial expression remains the same as ever.

"I'm alright. Thank you for asking Kiyo-kun." I express my gratitude and I walked back to Class D but I stopped. I turn around, looking at him. "If possible, Kiyo. Can you check on something?" He blinks.

[Late at night]
Third-person POV

Miyako is sleeping with the other girls where she's sleeping near the entrance, across from Ibuki. A figure was outside the tent. They grabbed something and walk away from the tent, they open up the bag to see something.

'I see.'

—————
Chapter Fourteen episode ten part one: Scouting
To be continued.

Author: Well we got some Kiyo and Miyako moments. Yay. Also, quick note. I didn't add the walkie talkie that was in clear sight when the three of them were talking to Ryuen.

So ya, they're gonna have to figure out another way. The next part will be part two of episode 10.

April 4, 2022
Words: 2881

Chapter Fifteen: leeriness within the group

[Beware. There may be OOC moments]

Nobody isn't fully trustworthy. They have to lie at some point to back up their defense. They say that they tell the truth all the time and never lied. That comment about themselves, Is it true though?

[The island exam - day three]
Kiyotaka's POV

The boys were snoring. Hirata sat up from the ground, looking at them. "Morning, Hirata."

"Morning, Ayanokouji-Kun. Did I wake you?"

"No, it's just hard to sleep soundly in an environment like this. My back hurts." Hirata chuckled at my comment.

It is uncomfortable.

We both got out of the tent, we approach the river. I bend down and scoop up some of the water from the river and splashed my face, grabbing the towel, and drying my face off. "That feels good." Hirata sighed in relief. I look at Hirata. "It must be hard being the one keeping the class together."

"I do it because I like it, that's all. If it keeps everyone in the class happy, that's enough for me." I remain silent. All the effort to keep the class together just because he likes it?

I heard someone come out of the girls' tent. I turn to look at whoever came out. "Morning Akiyama-san. Did we wake you up?" Hirata asks and Miyako shakes her head. "No. It's just the ground is uncomfortable." Miyako says, Hirata looks at me then looks back at Miyako.

"Aha... It's a coincidence that you both said the same thing." Miyako looks at me. "It's a freaky coincidence. But, I think everyone's opinions would be similar to mine about sleeping on the ground." Miyako says and Hirata chuckle. "If you say so, Akiyama-san."

"I have heard what you said, Hirata-Kun. Do you like being the leader?" Miyako asks him. He seems a little confused.

"Well... Akiyama-san. Just like what I said to Ayanokouji-Kun, if it keeps everyone happy in the class then that's enough for me." Hirata answered her question as Miyako just nods.

"Alright. Kiyo-Kun. How did you sleep?" Miyako ask and I shrugged. "It was decent although my back hurts," I answered.

"Well, before everyone wakes up. I'll assign you to your duties. It will be to collect fish. Akiyama-san will go with you." I nod. "Let me just splash some water on my face first then I'll go," Miyako says.

Yesterday, Miyako tried to catch a fish with her bare hands. Is she going to do it again?

[In a nearby river that's not close to camp]
Miyako's POV

I'm tasked with catching fish and even partnered with Kiyotaka again. I feel bad that I let him carry the fishnets. "Do you need some help carrying those two fishnets?" I ask as he shakes his head. "It's fine." Well, if he's alright with it then that's fine.

"Fishing again, huh..." I look at the sky. "Everyone in our class seems to be eating more fish than the fruits," I sighed and I heard the river stream nearby. Looks like we are nearby. I was expecting it to be a little far from our main source of food but oh well.

We reached the river stream. I rolled up my pants to reach up to my ankles so they wouldn't get wet when I go into the river. I looked at Kiyotaka who is setting the fishnets down on the ground. I should probably try to speak up something cause this is an awkward silence.

"Kiyo-kun, let's play a game," I spoke as he looks up, he seems to be a little interested. "What game?" He asked.

"Fish catch, whoever catches the most wins and gets to ask the loser anything around three questions. The limit around is 26 since we have 26 students total, plus the fish may go bad if we catch more." I describe the rules of the game. However, I wanted to spice the game up a little bit.

"Although, there's a twist. The loser has to tell two truths and a lie. If you can detect a lie then you get to throw one fish at them and The loser Carries the fish to camp. Sounds good, right?" Kiyo nods that he is understanding the rules of the game. "Alright, however, I will always win in the end." He says and grabs the fishnet. Overconfident or is he serious? If so...

You may be my enemy.

"Alright alright, Kiyopon." I walk to grab the fishnet and look at it, it doesn't seem to be bad damage. "Please don't call me that."

"Kiyopon."

"Mi-chan." I stopped and ran towards the river, opening up the net. "Game starts now." I took off my shoes, walking on the river. I felt the cold water touching my skin and I waited for the fishes to swim by and have the right moment to catch around 3-4 fishes. I shouldn't be distracted by Kiyotaka.

Just ignore my surroundings and I'll win.

It felt like minutes has passed, how long exactly?... 30 minutes.

My fishnet was only able to catch 15. "I shouldn't force nature too much," I mumbled and I look at Kiyo's net, it was 16. Just one fish and he was able to win? Impressive.

"Looks like you win Kiyo-Kun, 16 fishes and 15. Add them up and it would be a total of 31. It would be enough for our classmates who want extra." I approach him while holding the fishnet. "So, what do you wanna ask me?"

Kiyotaka seems to be thinking about his question. "Take your time." I do wonder what is he going to ask. A few seconds have passed and Kiyotaka spoke up his questions.

"Question one: Were you homeschooled?"

The first question and he starts up getting personal huh? That's expected of a normal person to be asking others about their life. "Yes. I was a homeschooler." I answered with one truth. He seems to not suspect anything yet...

"Question two: What was your childhood like?"

I'm not liking this. Such personal questions and yet a bit hard to answer. I wish I can just tell him that I don't want anybody to know about my life.

I let out a sigh. "My childhood was simple. My family is in the category where they want their children to be successful at everything. It's normal for them to think their first child should be perfect and lead a better life than them." I answered. At least it was a half-truth, a half-lie.

Kiyo's eyes darkened, the shadow above his eyes. "My final question..."

"Why did you survive?"

That's an unordinary question. I don't think nobody would ask a question like that. Why did I survive? Does he know? How did he know? Did I let something slip out of that crack? If he knew my motives then my plan must've failed.

I remain silent. I don't know if I can answer this truthfully. I turn around, not facing Kiyo. "Why did I survive? Tough question, Kiyo."

"The reason I survived is that I was willing to sacrifice anything. To get what I want, I will do anything. If I didn't sacrifice something then I will lose the game. The queen will lose her pawns and her knights, rooks, and bishops. That's when the king will try and take back her throne. That's why I sacrifice everything to keep that throne. " I turn to face back at Kiyotaka.

"That's why I survived. Does that answer your question, Kiyo?" He only nodded. "Yes. Although throughout the game, you haven't made a single lie. Why?" So he wasn't able to detect my lie when I was answering that 2nd question?

"Human nature. Every human has some sort of reason to lie. Whether it's to defend themselves or to manipulate others." I walk out of the river while carrying the fishnet that's is carrying 15 fishes.

"Let's go Kiyo-Kun. Everyone must be hungry." I walk ahead of him, heading back to camp.

*flashback*
It was dark. Completely dark. The next thing I see was my blindfold being taken off to see I'm in a room except it was "normal". It isn't white. However, it's surrounded by books. A bed and just a desk with the paper already there. I look at my butler.

"You will be staying here for a few weeks then you will go back to the white room. Miyako-sama." I only nod that I heard his order.

Matsuo closed the door behind me. I look around the room, the windows were curtained shut so it was always dark with only one lighting area and it was just a lamp.

A single bed that's so close to the desk as I approach it. I see a paper with formulas and equations on there. Even if I am moved to a different location, it will always be the same routine.

I sat down, grabbed my pencil and I started writing down the answers. Hours have passed and a person in a lab coat walked in, they took my paper and looked at it. "Good. 006." They took it with them and walk back out, closing the door.

It was break time. At least that's what I think since it will always be 25 minutes of rest then resume back to the routine. I remain to stay seated. My clothes were the same, just a white dress and white socks.

Matsuo came in with a metal tray. He set it down on the desk. "... Why do I get taken out of the room?" For the first time, I spoke.

It felt right. There were no orders for me to remain silent.

"I'm sorry but I cannot disclose that information to you." I look at him. His eyes were filled with guilt.

When I look at his eyes, I always questioned myself. Why?

*flashback ended*

...

Humans have an endlessly amount of curiosity.

[Island exam - Day five]
Miyako's POV

Day four was the usual routine. Sudo and the others went to collect fish and kushida went to go collect fruits. Kiyo was on recon duty with sakura. Kiyo told me about Class C. They went to the beach where class C was supposed to be there, everything was gone except the beach ball.

The fourth day went smoothly well however Sudo's reckless behavior caused a scene for Ibuki.

Day five came and I was abruptly woken up by the girls surrounding me, even Karuizawa is crying. "... What's happening?" I rub my eyes, and Kushida looks at me. "W-Well, this morning. Karuizawa-san is crying that her underwear has gone missing." Seriously? That's why?

"If it was the boys-"

Karuizawa interrupted. "SERIOUSLY?! You're going to defend the boys?! Like I get it that your brother is there but I doubt he's innocent!" Karuizawa says as she continues to cry.

"Once again Karuizawa, Ayanokouji-Kun isn't related to me. Maybe you haven't been paying attention."

"But haven't you been hanging out with him ever since the beginning of the school year?" Mei-Yu Wang asks and I let out a sigh.

"Doesn't mean we are related nor we are lovers," I answered. I can hear the girls shouting at the boys to wake up. I heard Hirata's voice.

I covered my ears. I honestly don't wanna hear them bickering over something like underwear. Even if I did try to muffle the sounds, I still hear the boys and girls arguing about some underwear.

"Seriously?! A girl like that won't steal something like that!" Technically some girls can steal others' underwear...

"How can you be so sure?!"

"The point is that we can't camp in the same place as an underwear thief."

"SO WE DECLARE THAT HIRATA-KUN WILL FIND THE CULPRIT AND SO FIRST OFF SEARCH THE BOYS' BAGS!" I'm gonna feel bad for the three idiots if their bags get searched and they found something suspicious.

It... So loud this morning, I just woke up...

Kiyotaka's POV

We all were lined up while Hirata searches the boys' bags. Ike was in front of me, he seems to be trembling in fear. I tilt my head to the right, looking at Ike to see what's in his bag. "What's wrong?" I ask as he closed the bag immediately. "Uh, nothing!"

Yamauchi turns around with a big smile on his face. "Hang on... Are the one that stole them?"

"DUMB*SS! NO WAY!"

Yamauchi had that intense glare of suspension. "Hey... don't tell me.."

"What? Are you suspecting me?"

Yamauchi tries to forcefully grab his bag as Ike struggles to pull back. "SHOW ME YOUR BAG!"

"HEY CUT IT OUT." I continue to just watch them with the silence of the whole situation. Yamauchi pulls the pink underwear out of the bag. " a h."

"Caught red-handed!" Ike grabs his shoulders, shaking him while Yamauchi turns around, not facing Ike. "I-It wasn't me, I'm telling you! Th-They were just in there somehow!"

"No need to make excuses, man."

"I'M TELLING YOU! I DON'T KNOW HOW THEY GOT THERE!"

Ike turns to face me and then grabs my arms. "Hey, Ayanokouji! You believe me, right?!"

Please don't let me be a part of this.

"I can't be certain you're not the culprit, under the current circumstances," I answered as he clings to my arm tightly. "Ayanokoujiiiii!"

Wish I can ask Miyako for advice on not to be a part of this situation.

"But if you were the culprit, I don't think you'd be this careless." Ike started to smile. "Right?!" At least he seems to feel like he has some sort of ally to back him up.

"So you think someone stuck the panties inside Ike's bag?" Yamauchi asks and I nod. "There is a possibility," I replied. Sudo turns to look at us. "Hey! Hurry up!"

Ike started to panic. "UH, WHAT DO I DOOO?! I'm in serious trouble!" Yamauchi gives the panties to Ike's hand. "Good luck." He ran away from us.

"You'll just have to hide them," I said and Ike is still panicking. "Hide them?! Where? I'm totally panicking here!" I can see that.

He gives me the panties. "If you think I could hide them, then you should do it!"

...

I hate this.

"Okay okay? Okay, I'm on my way!" Ike runs to catch up to the front. I look at the panties that I'm holding. "You've got to be kidding me..." I mumbled to myself. I put the panties in my right pocket.

Well, they're just doing a bag check, they aren't going to find it.

Miyako's POV
I crawl out of the tent, seeing the boys and girls assembled. However, they are still arguing while Hirata is just trying to make peace with them.

These girls are sure annoying. I look at Kiyotaka who just seems to be in his usual mood. "The boys have been checked and nobody is the culprit," Hirata said and the girl in the front folded her arms, her face was filled with anger. I wanted to have a chat with Kiyo. I walk out of the girls' group to approach Kiyo.

"AKIYAMA WHERE YOU GOING?!" I stop and turn to face the girl who shouted at me. "I'm going to talk with one of the boys," I said and Hirata shakes his head. "If you have not heard Akiyama-san but it may be an invasion of privacy if you want to go look at their bags and their pockets..."

"Then I'm not allowed to talk with Ayanokouji-Kun?" I look at Kiyo. "Ah... Well, Uhm.." Hirata doesn't know what else to say, I turn to face the girls. "Go ahead and suspect me to be the culprit just because I'm not going to side with anybody. " There were gasps.

"You are going to side with the boys?!"

"Why would you do that? They're guilty!"

I let out a sigh. "The culprit would be purposely reckless and place Karuizawa's underwear in anyone's bags. In the meanwhile, go check your bags. So instead of blaming the boys with no evidence and shouting at them, investigate the girls' bags as well."

"You serious?! The girls wouldn't do that much of thing." I folded my arms. These girls are getting more and more annoying by the minute.

"As I said, I'm not on either side. I just wanna pass this exam and get over with it. Now can I talk with Ayanokouji-Kun?" I ask and Hirata sigh. "Go on ahead," Hirata said.

We walked away from the group but I still hear bickering.

[away from the group]

I lean against the tree, I glance over at the group who is still arguing. "So Kiyo-Kun. What's been going on?" He seems to be quite confused. "Hm?"

"Oh, the boys. Such as Ike being defensive." I explain what I mean. "You have heard the boys are being accused of stealing a girl's underwear." Kiyo answers and I let out a sigh.

Little did they know, I'm a light sleeper so I can hear footsteps...

"Well, it's going to be obvious... Ike-Kun was the person holding the underwear in his bag?" I ended up going straight to the point. We are on limited time anyway cause I think they're waiting for us.

He nodded. "And Ike was cleared? So it could be either one of the boys hiding it or.." I look up at Kiyo. "You."

"What accusation you have that I would carry the underwear?" Kiyo seems to be defending himself here. I folded my arms. "You just seem like the person who would be hiding something perverted and you won't be fazed. I have seen how you reacted towards Kushida's little incident."

"Alright. You got me." I wasn't expecting him to give up that easily. "I won't tell anyone." I lean off from the tree, heading back to the group.

"Why?" He ask, I stopped. I turn to face him. "I already caused a scene of just talking with you. I don't want to be the center of attention as it is. Besides, what's the point of telling the girls over some underwear?" I said. Kiyo and I returned to the group.

[Class D camp]

The girls return out from the tent. "We searched our bags and there was nothing! Happy?" The boys were getting annoyed by these accusations.

"Enough with this! You don't have any proof that the boys did this!" I heard whispering from the girls that Ike was being too defensive.

"Then I demand the boys be patted down! An underwear thief could be hiding anywhere!"

I look at Kiyo and his eyes were looking at me.

Well crap.

"FINE! Go ahead and check me!" He pulls his pockets outwards to see they were empty.

Hey, if you lead the conversation down that path...

"Fine. Hirata-Kun, if you please."

Hopefully, Hirata-Kun has some reason, unlike these girls...

The boys all lined up as Hirata pats them down to see if they were hiding Karuizawa's underwear.

This is the worst possible situation. Kiyo won't be able to talk his way out of this. If Hirata tells everyone that Kiyo is the culprit then I'll just try to convince them that he isn't. Or I can just stand there and not intervene.

"I'm sorry. I'll make this quick." Hirata starts patting down Kiyo.

He should either tell the truth or just give up.

"Ayanokouji-Kun doesn't have it either."

... Huh? That was an unexpected answer.

"It isn't a boy."

"Really?"

I look at Kiyo. Yeah no doubt, we both were a bit surprised by what just happened. After the whole freaky incident, things were slowly repairing themselves. It was late afternoon, everything seems to be back to normal. However, I wanted to ask Hirata something. I approach him, "Hirata-Kun, can we talk for a minute?"

[Away from the group]

I put my hands in my pocket, leaning against the tree. "Why didn't you tell them?"

"Huh? Oh... So it was true that it was Karuizawa-san's underwear that was in Ayanokouji-Kun's pocket. You knew it as well?..."

"Yeah." I heard someone approaching and I look who it is. It was Kiyotaka. "Oh, Kiyo-Kun. How's it going?" I ask and Hirata turns to face Kiyo. "Ayanokouji-Kun, were you the person that stole it?" He asks as Kiyo shakes his head. "No, I didn't."

"I believe you. You're not the kind of person who'd do that. Besides, Akiyama-san knows about it and she didn't tell us." I just don't wanna be in the center of attention.

"Do you mind if I hold onto the underwear?"

Kiyo approaches him, "Are you sure?" He pulls the underwear from his pocket, giving it to Hirata. "I'm the one who would be least damaged by being named the culprit. I'm her boyfriend after all. I believe you're not the culprit, Ayanokouji-Kun. Including you Akiyama-san. That's why I decided to save him." At least he has reasons, he's good that Kiyo wouldn't do such a thing.

"This isn't a conditional thing but would you both try to find the real culprit?" Another favor from Hirata but it sure would be beneficial for the group to not fall apart. Find the real culprit, huh?

"Me, find the culprit?" Kiyo ask and Hirata nodded. After some consideration, I let Kiyo answer for me. "Well, We're try, at least." He said as Hirata thanked us. "If you both find the culprit, I'd like you to tell me first, I don't want you to tell anyone else."

"Are you asking us to cover the truth about the real culprit? Such a bold move, Hirata-kun." I said and I look at him. He looks down, "Cover up the truth, huh? I guess this is what it is. Because no matter who it turns out to be, I believe I should probably bury the truth. No matter the risk." The wind started to blow, my mid-length brown hair swaying from the wind.

I noticed Hirata's hand seems to be trembling but he musters the strength. "I don't want to ruin everything over this." He looks at us. "That's why I want you both to help me." He smiled.

Kiyo seems to be taking some consideration however,

That smile...

It seems so...

Fake. Chapter Fifteen episode ten part two: Leeriness within the group
To be continued.

Author: we are getting to episode 11. Yay. This chapter is a entirely different from the others cause I just put more Kiyo and Miyako scenes. And especially the two truths and a lie game. Thank mister S for the questions that Kiyo would ask.

And I wanted to add Miyako interacting with Hirata instead of Kiyo cause I need to prepare something later in the story~

We got a bit more on Miyako's childhood. Sooo yay.

April 7, 2022
Words: 3825

Chapter Sixteen: Twisting the game

[Beware. There may be some OOC moments]

Criminals usually try everything to hide their tracks of a crime especially when it involves murder. But there will always be some evidence left behind.

[Island Exam - Day Five still]
Miyako's POV
Two more days and then we're be done with this island exam. But, this is slowly becoming a routine in this exam. The boys and girls are arguing but this time, the trust is broken between them. "I don't want to sleep next to the boys!"

"Yeah! We should move the tents and make the girls' area off limits!"

"THEN GO MOVE YOUR TENT!" Ike shouted at them. "Calm down everyone. We will move the boys' tent, okay?" Hirata looks at the girls and then the boys.

"Fine. Hirata-Kun can move the boys' tent." Karuizawa said but Horikita walks in, standing next to Hirata. "I don't object to separating the boys and the girls but I don't trust letting Hirata-kun do the work." Horikita expresses her opinion about this whole situation.

"Huh?! But he's the only boy we can trust. He isn't the person to do those things after yesterday!"

Yeah, pretend Kiyo doesn't exist.

"If we have another boy, then it'll double the manpower and the boys can watch each other. The person who can do that." Horikita turns to look at Kiyo. "You, Ayanokouji-Kun."

"Him?! But he's too invisible and inoffensive!" Karuizawa said and I let out a sigh. "He isn't like that. He's just more neutral." I said as the girls turns their heads, looking at me.

"I don't believe you-"

Horikita interrupted what the girls were going to say. "You should trust Akiyama-san's words. She's been around him since the beginning of the school year." Horikita said and I just nod, agreeing with her.

"But, she's also invisible and inoffensive. She may just be an accomplice-"

"Seriously, you are going to blame her for that? She's a girl also. You haven't spent time around Ayanokouji-kun so your not the judge of that." Horikita said as Karuizawa sighed. "Fine! I agree with you."

Am I that inoffensive? Guess it's official. I have not made any friends besides Kiyo.

Kiyotaka's POV

I finished attaching the line to the tent. "I got named by process of elimination, huh?" I grab one of the pieces of the tent.

"I think it's Horikita-san's way of complimenting you. Karuizawa-san agreed with her." Hirata said, smiling. "I seem to recall your girlfriend saying that I seemed invisible and inoffensive enough."

Hirata awkwardly chuckles. "Yeah but Akiyama-san backed you up." He said and then we heard somebody call out his name. "Hirata-kun! Sorry, could you come here a minute!"

"I'm uh- I don't..."

"I'll handle the rest. You go on." Hirata sigh and thanked me for taking care of the tent then went out to see what was the problem with the girls' side.

After finishing the tent. I wipe sweat out of my forehead. The boys' tent has been officially moved.

I heard someone approaching and I turn around. It was Ibuki. "Class D seems to be having trouble too."

"I guess we've both had our share of problems."

"Whether the reason, as a girl. I find that theft of a girl's underwear unforgivable." Ibuki said then looks down. "Who do you think was responsible?"

I stayed silent. "You thought it was me, right? I'm an outsider. Sudo's not the only one who suspects me." I look at Sudo who seems to be irritated as usual.

"I guess so." I pointed at him. "Sudo's glaring at you right now."

"Of course he is. If I were in your position, I wouldn't trust someone from another class, either."

"I trust you," I said and Ibuki looks up at me, her face seems to be quite surprised. "Th-Thanks... I wasn't expecting you to say that."

"I was just responding honestly." Her face seems flustered.

Miyako's POV

I walked to the area where we found Ibuki st. The thing that is wrapped around the tree branch. I look down at the ground. "... Hm..."

I remember Ibuki's face being bruised up but her fingers were covered with dirt. She didn't have a proper time to clean herself. So this place...

I look up at the branch that has some sort of fabric that is tied to it.

*flashback*

I was back in the white room, I was in my cell just playing chess. I knocked out the pawn as it drops to the floor. I heard the iron cell door opening. A person with a lab coat came in. "006. The professor wanted to give you something."

"..." I remain silent. There was another kid, a female walking in. "Meet 008. She will be borrowing your room. You have an order to speak to each other." I only nod that I received their orders.

The cell door shuts. "H-Hey. 006. M-My name is eight. Although I-I like to be called H-Hachi."

Hachi is the Japanese word for eight. But out of everyone besides me, they all have numbers since they were born and raised in the white room. "W-What's your name?" She pointed. I look down, just simply playing chess. Moving the knight to a certain spot that's close to the rook.

"Miyako," I answered as the girl approaches me. "D-Do you have a surname?" The rook seems to be trapped. I used my other rook to knock it out. "M-Miyak-"

"Ayanokouji Miyako," I said as Hachi looks at the board. "A-Ayanokouji? J-Just like the p-professor?"

...
I only nod. I look up at Hachi. She had long black hair and light green eyes. She doesn't seem to be mad. Unlike the other children whenever we have combat lessons. They all want to beat me just because I have the genes of that man.

"T-That's amazing. Y-You must be more perfect than anyone here... I-I have heard you pass all your exams and assignments with 200/200."

"I am not perfect. Just better..." I answered.

"S-Since we are going to be roommates... W-We can be friends..."

... Friend huh?...

*flashback ended*

I bend down, looking at the dirt. It still seems like it was recently covered up. Although it may be a little lumpy. I started digging right next to the tree stump. Oh? So there is a meaning behind this...

Kiyotaka's POV

It's getting late. I already had started a campfire, staring at it. I couldn't stop thinking about the responses of Miyako's answers to my questions.

" ' The reason I survived is that I was willing to sacrifice anything. To get what I want, I will do anything. If I didn't sacrifice something then I will lose the game. The queen will lose her pawns and her knights, rooks, and bishops. That's when the king will try and take back her throne. That's why I sacrifice everything to keep that throne. ' "

I should be wary around her. Her presence just seems unnatural, the way she answered my last question.

"It must be hard, being forced to do such menial labor." Horikita walks up and I look at her. "You're the one to talk. It wouldn't have happened if you hadn't butted in. Even had Miyako a part of this." I said, Horikita looks at me.

"What was I supposed to do? I can't trust Hirata-kun. I needed insurance." Horikita explains her reason why I was involved in this. "You should stop assuming everyone has a hidden devious side."

"That's true. I have no hidden side. But most people keep their inner thoughts and their outward behavior separate. As you and Akiyama-san do." She sure has decent reasons for people's hidden side.

"And as virtuousness and hypocrisy often walk hand in hand. I choose not to trust him." I let out a sigh. "Isn't it about time for you to come clean already?" Horikita seems confused by my question.

"What are you talking about?" I stood up, still looking at the campfire. "You've been feeling ill since the test started, haven't you?"

"I've been feeling fine." Being denial, huh...?

"Liar." I turn around, walking closer to her. I grabbed her upper arm so she wouldn't try to escape. She tried to slap me but I catch her left wrist. "Let me go." She demands and I lift my hand.

"Don't move," I said then I had my hand touch her forehead. "Close to 38 degrees celsius." I let go of her. "You could tell? What are you, a thermometer?" She let out a sigh. "When we met up on the ship's deck, I asked you what you'd been doing. Remember?" I ask and Horikita seems to just slowly give up on her defense that she is sick.

"I said I'd been in my room, reading."

"You weren't resting in your room because you felt sick? You don't intend to tell the others?" I ask and Horikita remains to not look at me. "I've held out for five days now. If I gave up now, it would all go to waste." I heard someone coming. "It might go worst if you continue to persist," Miyako said and Horikita's eyes widen a bit. "You knew as well?"

So Miyako can tell that Horikita was sick.

"Your body movement was strange, usually you would be confident. But you kept rubbing your arm and unlike everyone here who has their gym uniform jackets unzipped or half zipped. Yours is fully zipped in. And you are always in the tent." Miyako explains and Horikita sighed. "Don't mention this to anybody you two." She walks away from us. I turn to face Miyako.

She remains silent, having her hands in her pockets.

[Island Exam - Day six]
Miyako's POV

One more day and then the next day would be the final results. Honestly, this class is falling apart, after a huge distrust within class D. The girls couldn't get more annoying, and now they're just sending dead glares at me or don't want to be around me. All because I'm just biased toward either group. What a shame...

I went out with Ike, Kiyo, and Horikita to help them catch some fish. I noticed the skies were dark and gray. "Seems like it's going to rain." Ike looks at me, "I thought it might rain overnight but this is more than I expected." Ike said as I look up at the clouds. "It's good to be out of the sun but..."

"Storm clouds are approaching from the southwest. The weather might turn sooner than you'd expect." Horikita describes the direction where the storm may come from. Kiyo seems to be disappointed with something. "Oh..." Horikita looks at Kiyo, "What?" She asks and he looks away. "No, it's nothing..."

... Guess I should plan ahead of time then.

"We'd better gather food before it starts to rain then. Okay! I'm gonna gather up the storm!" Ike rolls up his sleeves and walks to the river. "Ike's become quite reliable," Kiyo says and I nod, agreeing with him. "You'd better do your best to be useful too," Horikita says, folding her arms.

I wonder if I should take that offense to heart or not.

"Same to you. Don't forget that everyone here wants to secure a day's rations." Kiyo says to Horikita and Horikita nods. "I know. You don't have to tell me." Kiyo sighs, walking ahead of us. I'll just let them have their conversation.

I turn to look at Ibuki who seems to notice I was looking at her. Should I try to talk to her or not?

I approach Ibuki. "Hello, Ibuki-san. Can we talk for a bit?" She seems to be surprised at my sudden approach. "Yeah?" She continues picking up some berries. "I was wondering, do you plan to go back to Class C once this is over?" I ask and she stopped. "It's my designated class. Of course, I have to go back." She went back to collecting the berries but I continue questioning her.

"Even if they have given up on this island exam?"

"Tch. It doesn't matter."

"Then do you plan to leave during the storm after you figure out our class leader?" Ibuki stops, she slowly turns around and faces me.

"Do you know then? What am I going to do?" I blink and I shake my head. "I do not understand what you are talking about." Ibuki sighs. "Then it's nothing." I heard laughter, turning around to see what the commotion was. Yamauchi was with Kushida, but I saw him putting mud on Horikita's head.

You are serious?

Ibuki and I approach them. "This is where the boyfriends suppose to step in, right Ayanokouji-kun?" Horikita turns around, grabbing Yamauchi's left wrist. "Ow- Hey, what's wrong-" Horikita isn't happy at all then she grabs his shoulder, throwing him off his feet and hitting him with Kiyo, and they slammed into the river. "That hurt...!"

"A h. Kiyopon, are you okay?" I ask and he looks at me. "... I'm fine." He said and Kushida checks up on Horikita. "Horikita-san, you're covered with mud. You should wash that off right away." Kushida said and Horikita agrees. "It's true that I can't stay like this." Kiyo walks out of the river, just drenched.

"Horikita..." She looks at Kiyo. I'm surprised he remains to have that calm stoic expression on his face after being slammed by Yamauchi. "Were you trying to kill him? If I hadn't saved him, Yamauchi's head would've split open." Isn't it because you were just there as his shield so he wouldn't get hit the rock?

Horikita ignores him, walking away from us. "I should probably go check up on her," Kushida said and I grab her shoulder. "She'll be fine," I said, I noticed Kiyo was looking at me. "Want me to go grab a towel?" I ask, he shakes his head.

After a certain amount of time of fish catching and me getting Kiyo a towel. Ike only managed to catch two fish while the girls' shower stall has a long line. I saw Ibuki walk in. I stood up, "I'm going to go on ahead." I said as Ike looks at me.

"Eh? You don't wanna go to the girls' area to take a shower?" I shake my head. "I'll do it when the line isn't long." I walk to check on Horikita. I saw her walking out of the waterfall area, seemly her face is full distraught. "Horikita-san. Something the matter?"

She remains silent. "It's nothing." She walks away from me. Judging by her facial expression and her behavior.

It confirms my theory that it did work.

Kiyotaka's POV

I was sitting close to the campfire, cooking the two fish Ike caught. "Two fish? That's a shame. Guess we are going to be low on food for the rest of the day when it comes to protein." Miyako said and I look at her. "We only have one more day so it will be fine," I said, Horikita approaches us.

Her face is just riddled with distress. "Can I talk to you both?" Miyako looks at her. "Hm? But, last time you said it was nothing." Horikita shakes her head. "No. It's just something that I need to talk about with both of you." Miyako seems to be quite confused by this.

We three walk out of the campsite to somewhere a bit secluded in the forest. Horikita spoke up.

"Ayanokouji-kun and Akiyama-San... I got careless."

"Careless?"

"Something was stolen."

"Is it another underwear incident? I'm not dragging any boys into this." Miyako sighed but Horikita looks at her, her eyes showing the sign of fraught.

"I lost the keycard." My eyes blink. "Eh?" Horikita folds her arms, looking down. "I think the best course of action is to keep things between us. If we tell the others then the entire class will panic. Do you have any suspects?" I ask and Horikita nodded.

"It's either Ibuki-san or Karuizawa-san." Your kidding, I get Ibuki but why Karuizawa?

"Are things that bad between you and her?" I ask and Horikita nodded. Miyako leans against the tree, just observing the conversation.

"Last I saw Karuizawa-san, she's at the front of the shower stall the whole time. Although, for Ibuki, If you see her, you can question her when the time is right."

"... I see." Horikita's shoulders were slightly trembling. Is she trying not to express something?

"Horikita-San, why are you telling us this?" Miyako asks and Horikita faces her.

"I can only trust you and him for now. Ayanokouji told me that he just wanted to see the keycard to make sure that the other classes have the same one." Trust huh?...

"Seems reasonable since we did see Class A had that same card," Miyako said, she leans away from the tree. "We should head back." I nod in agreement and walk away from Horikita who stayed behind.

Knowing Horikita, she just wanna crawl off and vomit due to her condition. She's not the person who seems to break down from the immense stress.

What an unfortunate situation.

Miyako's POV

It was a certain amount of time, and the skies still weren't showing that the storm is approaching.

I look at the match that I have with me.

"To have great power and refuse it to your advantage. Only a fool would do." I mumbled to myself. Lighting the match up, seeing the flame just slowly burn off.

.

.

.

.

.

Fine then. I'll only let my talents out. For just one day.

.

.

.

.

.

.
Ì̴͕̰̊͊͂̀̿'̷̝̹͙͓͙͚̏͐͜͝l̷̡̤̐̇͛̔̈́͐̐̚l̷̡̥̜͔̣̫̘̆͑͗͆͗̾ ̷̨̨͈̪͈̠͚̫́͐b̵͉͇̠̬̀̎͑͊͠e̴̮͛̇ ̷͇͂́́̓̅͗͜t̶̜̯̥̾̂h̴̪̜̜̥̜̳̱̼̯̆̓̔̂͠͠͠ë̸̗́͗̍̓͘ ̴̢̧̖̻̞̥͇͋̐͂̾͐̾w̴̗̭̳̦̯̜̪͔̅̀ô̸͍͕̭͙ṟ̵̜̱̺̦̩̺͐͛̋͊̃̓͌͗͘s̵̛̝̙̜̠̫̯͚̤̲̞̊̐̈̿̒̚t̵̢̧̙̘͙̺͎̦̻͊̀̍̑̓̽̀͆̽̈͜ ̴̧͕̖̖̩̤͎̘͍͗̍̑͗̔f̸̡̫̤́̆̉̆̂̽ͅo̵͍̰̪̳̻͋͒͝o̷̺͐l̷̨̢̡̛͓̯̗̳̟̩̺̄͛̍̋͛͘̕ ̷̩̟̀́͂̌͊̆͂̇͠ḙ̸̡͖̠͕̫͈̠̺͂̽̾̾̈́͌͋͘͜͠v̸͍͈̤͚̙̙̙͉̩͆́̇̏̒e̶͔̻͚̼͔̙̕r̵̫̜͌͒͘ ̵̡͈͕̯̯̃͘i̸̞̩̤̗̘͑͛̿͆̾̄͘n̷̖͉̝̳̹̜͇̜̋̎͂̋̈͋̂͘͠ ̶̳̞̣̘̫̦̣̣̭̈́͆̏ͅt̵̡̻̳̹͑̾̅̅́̕͝ẖ̷̹̬̗̜͕̫̠͉́̃̎̿̿i̷͓͌̓̑̅͛̐͆̏̿̀s̸̝̦̤̲̓̀̂ ̶̨̡̨̛͙͆͆̔̓͊̑̓̌͘͜w̶̲͉̙̅ọ̵̧̖̥̮̱̔̔̓̈́̐r̵̢̧̲̲̹̥̈́̏̔̎̂̋̒̈́͘͠l̵̛̼̼̎̇̕̕ḑ̸̥̥̺̓̎̽͐͠ .
.

.

Let's twist the game a bit more.

I drop the match onto the ground as it touched something that was on it.

It started to smoke up to the skies, I heard someone shouting as I walk away from the scene before anyone could come to the area close to the shower.

Kiyotaka's POV

After some time at camp, I had the match out but I couldn't find something to light up with. However, something happened and the class started to panic.

Everyone ran to the source, something was burning. Sudo and Hirata unzipped their jackets, taking them off as they kept hitting on the fire to try and extinguish it.

... Someone caused this.

"Someone go get some water!" I saw Karuizawa run out of the group to get some. Horikita ran to the campsite to see what was going on.

Horikita covered her nose and her mouth then took a look closer. "Huh? The survival manual...!"

"How could someone do this?..." Hirata is confused by this arson incident. "Move! I got the fire extinguisher!" Ike sprays it over the fire as it slowly extinguishes.

The burnt survival Manuel just sitting there on the ground. It caused great distrust among the boys and the girls besides Hirata. "You guys were the cause of this!"

"YOU HAVE NO EVIDENCE! BESIDES THE PANTY THIEF, WHY WOULD WE TRY TO BURN THE FOREST DOWN!" Ike yells, trying to defend the boys that it isn't their fault that they caused the fire.

"WE SHOULDN'T BELIEVE PEOPLE LIKE YOU! An underwear panty thief!"

"ARE WE SERIOUSLY GOING TO GO THROUGH THIS NOW?!" Sudo shouted. I sigh then I felt a drop of water. I look up. The cloud is darker and it starts to rain.

It's just about ready to pour...

"I can't take it! You people are the worst! I can't believe I have a panty thief and an arsonist in my class!"

"Hey, is Ibuki-san here?" Kushida asks while running in the rain. She stops to see that Ibuki isn't with us. "Oh? She's not here either?"

"Huh? She was here just a minute ago..."

"Hey wait you mean..."

"It is pretty suspicious."

"Because she started the fire? Does that mean...?" Looks like people are now seeing Ibuki as the culprit of the arson incident.

Sudo slams his fist into his palm. "I knew she was a spy! She ran away! Damn it!" He said as the rain continue to pour heavier.

"Anyway, let's talk about it later. Hirata, give us instructions!"

"Hirata-kun, what should we do now?"

I turn to see Hirata looking down, his fist clenched tightly. "How could this... I haven't done anything wrong... why would I..."

Miyako sighed and tapped on his shoulder. "Hey, Hirata-kun. Ike's talking to you." He looks at her. "It's raining..." Hirata said, realizing it was raining.

"You should help them out. The clothes are still out to dry." I said and Hirata nods, agreeing with me.

"Y-You're right. We need to put them away. Anyway, let's get out of the rain. Girls bring in the clothes we were drying. Boys, cover the firewood with a tarp so it doesn't get wet. Come on. Hurry!" The girls and the boys heard Hirata's instructions and went off to follow them.

It was just me and Miyako, who had her hands in her pocket. "I noticed Horikita-san is gone. Shall we go look for her?" She asks and I look at the pathway of the forest. "... Mhm." I turn around, walking into the forest. Miyako follows me from behind.

After we find Horikita. Its the right time to ask who are you.

Horikita's POV

Once I heard Ibuki was missing, I chased her down. Running in the rain, just running in a direction where Ayanokouji and his group located her.

She shouldn't be that far...

I stopped, I was out of breath. My body is starting to feel hot, wait... Cold? I shouldn't give up now, I must confront Ibuki.

I walk up to see Ibuki, standing underneath the tree. The ground dugout, I approach her. "Took you long enough."

"Let's get down to the point. Return what belongs to me." I demanded and Ibuki looks at me. "What? I don't know what you talking about." She said with a smile on her face.

Liar. I know it was you. Out of everyone else in the class, you are the primary suspect.

"Return it," I demanded once again for my keycard.

"Fine. Do whatever you want." Ibuki takes off her bag, letting it down on the ground. Walking away with her hands up. I approach her, bending down to search the bag but suddenly I was nearly kicked to the chin. I jumped back to avoid the attack. "Eh? Not bad!"

"Violence is an automatic disqualification," I said and Ibuki shrugs it off like it was nothing. "And who's here to see it? Besides, I think you came here for a fight!" Ibuki runs towards me and swings her leg up, aiming at my head. I blocked it, I tried to get my distance a bit far from Ibuki to recover.

"Heh. You move surprisingly well." Ibuki smiles.

If I can't do something, I'll be holding class D back... I, who looked down my nose at the others and called them worthless... when it comes down to it, not only am I useless, I'm resolving things with violence. How utterly absurd.

I let out a sigh. "It was you, wasn't it? The one who stole the key card." Ibuki remains silent as she starts swinging her fist and her legs, I try to block her attacks and even try dodging but I got hit to the head and I fell, mud splattering half of my body.

"As a reward for your hard work, I'll tell you." I Ibuki shows the keycard. "I am the one that stole the keycard." My vision started to clear up, I stood up from the ground.

"You admitted it pretty easily after all that..."

"There's no proof that I hurt you." You kicked me to the head, I would've lost consciousness immediately if I didn't block your attack...

"Isn't that right?" Ibuki remains to have that smile on her face. "If I had that key card, I could analyze your fingerprints. I could prove the theft to the school too!" Ibuki chuckled, running toward me again and I dodge her kick that was aimed at my head.

If I could get her off balance...

I grab her right arm and she immediately backed away from me. I punched her in the chest. Most specifically to the right side. Ibuki grunted and collapsed to her knees. I panted out of breath.

It's getting worst...

"I was sure you were involved in it. The arson... the reason I talked you in such a roundabout way was to confirm that."

"Huh? You mean...?!"

*flashback*

I saw Akiyama walk out of the rooftop. It was strange that it was the same place that Chabashira-sensei wanted to meet up. I saw her smoking. Judging by her facial expression, she didn't seem happy. But I couldn't tell, her face is like Ayanokouji's. Emotionless.

"What do you want? You called me out here to talk so talk." I said and Chabashira-Sensei sighed. "I'll get to the point. How do you do it?"

"I'm sorry, I don't know what you mean." Well, I did plan it up to that false evidence...

"Don't play dumb. We know those imbeciles wouldn't withdraw their complaint for no reason." Chabashira-sensei said. "I'll leave that for your imagination," I responded as Chabashira-sensei smokes.

"I'll rephrase the question then. Who came up with the brilliant idea? What made them back off?"

Just drop the question Sensei.

"I don't know. What does that even matter to you?" I ask her. What's with her being so persistent about it?

"If you are truly serious about advancing to class A. Then allow me to offer you a simple word of advice." She got me interested in this advice. I remain silent, waiting for her words.

"Learn as much about Ayanokouji and Akiyama as you can. While you still have an opportunity to do so. Otherwise, before you know it. It will be too late. "

*flashback ended*

It couldn't be them...

My guard was down and I tried to back away but I was hit to the head, knocking me to the ground.

"Sorry. I've got a busy schedule ahead of me. Our conversation is over." That was the last thing I heard before I lost consciousness.

—————
Chapter Sixteen episode eleven: Twisting the game
To be continued.

Author note: oh lord the chapter is getting tensed. Miyako's observant skills are like high in this chapter. Expect Kiyo be asking questions on Miyako since she was the one who caused the arson instead of him. • •

And more flashbacks wooo. Now before you ask questions on how. It will be answered in the next chapter ••;

Now before you ask why did Miyako do this? It will be answered in the next chapter.

April 11, 2022
Words: 4480

Chapter Seventeen: Chessboard's missing piece

[Beware there may be some OOC moments]

A chessboard is never completed without a single piece missing. Otherwise, the queen will lose her game. That's why she must use everything to find that piece and win.

[Island exam - Day six still]
Miyako's POV

Well, things went accordingly. Horikita chased after Ibuki but I didn't expect her to run a bit far from camp. "Kiyo-kun, do you know where Horikita-san may be?" I ask but he remains silent, gesturing a shrug.

"Perhaps Ibuki-san is at the place where we first met her," I said, then stopped to see Horikita unconscious on the ground, a bit beaten up as well. "Oh. We found her." I said then bent down to check her forehead.

"Yeah, it's gotten worse." I stood up and looked at Kiyotaka. "You wanna carry her or should I?" Kiyo lifts Horikita, carrying her in a bridal style.

"We should head to the beach where the senseis' are located. Horikita's sickness has worsened so she is in no condition to continue." He said and I nod in agreement. I look at the pathway of the forest.

"We should be careful, we are a bit far from the beach and it's raining so you could potentially slip," I warned as he shrugged it off.

"It'll be fine." He said, walking ahead of me. Yeah, I doubt it if you are going to hold Horikita. "I'll come with you. Besides, we're already this far from the camp so I would rather not come back alone." I ran, catching up to him.

I look at Horikita and she is still covered in mud. I wonder how far we can get there without slipping from the mud?

"Kiyo-kun, don't you think this is weird? Class D has some problems such as the arson attack and the-"

"How about you get to the point already?" I blink, looking at Kiyotaka who is walking down the pathway of the forest hill. "Hm? The point?"

"You were the one who caused the arson." He said with a straightforward accusation. Oh, he caught me up to it already? And I thought I was doing well at hiding it.

"Hm, what made you suspect me to be the arsonist?" I ask and he looks at me. "After we talk with Horikita. You went off somewhere and afterward, everyone started to panic." My face remains blank after he explains the reason why.

I wonder if I should just give up on my defense and admit the truth that I did start the fire. "Yeah. It was me. I was the one who started it." I said, admitting the truth I was behind it.

"Why?"

"It was your plan, right?" I looked at Kiyotaka, and he was a bit surprised. "When Horikita-san said the storm is going to come from the southwest. You seem a bit disappointed." I said as Kiyotaka just nodded.

"It doesn't show that I was planning to set something on fire," Kiyo said and I let out a sigh. "True but it was a good distraction for Ibuki-san," I said in my answer.

"Distraction? Why would you think something like that?" He questions. Oh well, guess I should express my motives.

"Ibuki's hands were covered in dirt, of course, everyone would have dirt at some point but she was bruised up and sitting under the tree that had a ribbon tied to it. It was suspicious so I decided to take a look while you were talking with her." I answered his question and Kiyotaka seemed to be a bit impressed.

"I assume you did something on your part as well?" I ask as Kiyo's face remains the usual expressionless one.

"I did. I checked Ibuki's bag to see that there was a digital camera and I decided to destroy it with some water." Kiyo answers. Hm? A digital camera? I didn't expect that to be in her bag.

"Knowing her and when she got to the line last after Horikita had a shower, it was clear to me that she obtained her keycard. That's why I decided to set the arson early. Sorry if I have taken that role." I apologize for intervening in his plan.

Kiyotaka and I remained to walk side by side as we were heading down the pathway to the beach. "Why would you be alright with this?" I stopped, looking down.

"Why? I don't know. I'm alright with it. It's clever. It's not like I'm going to change anything." I continue walking ahead of him.

I notice a hill down the road and I look at it. "Seems a bit deep," I mumbled. I'm sure we can not trip and have Horikita be covered in more mud. I waited for Kiyotaka to catch up and we started walking down the hill.

Then the unexpected happens. Not from someone like Kiyotaka who would SLIP from the mud.

I quickly turned around but I felt my shin just snap. It didn't matter, the pain didn't hurt. I caught Kiyo's wrist as he was clinging to Horikita.

I clicked my tongue, the mud was slippery and I felt like I'm going to lose my balance. "Oh, that's bad," I said and I tried to pull him back to his feet but we both ended up falling from the deep hill, rolling to the end.

Well, we are now covered in mud. That's great...

I stood up, winced a bit, and looked down. My ankle is sprained. I approach Kiyo, who's still holding on to Horikita. "I'm impressed you were able to keep her in your arms," I said, trying to remove some of the mud that was on my gym uniform.

He stood up, his clothes covered with mud while still carrying Horikita in his arms. "Are you alright?" He asks and I nod. "It's fine." I lied about the part that I'm alright, it's just a sprain.

"Let's take a break first." I look at that gigantic tree, it could be a bit decent to cover our heads with for now. "But we do have a time limit, what if our class finds out we're gone?" Oh, now that he mentioned it.

We didn't tell our class that we were going to head off to find Horikita.

"Hm... We will just explain it later. For now, we need to take a break. After that fall, Horikita will eventually wake up." I explain and I point at Horikita who is still unconscious.

[Under the tree]

We found some sort of cover and let Horikita lay on the ground. I was sitting against the tree stump on the left side while Kiyo was sitting in front of the tree.

It was a moment of silence with just the sounds of rain, just tapping onto the leaves as the raindrops on the ground. Kiyotaka spoke up to break the silence between us and the unconscious Horikita.

" Given the canvas of white painted with red of the innocent painters, I foretell one thing... The painting was never a piece of beauty, but a piece of horror. Yet two painters made one masterpiece...

A masterpiece inspiring the devil to continue painting with more red... And red... And red... Never stopping . The masterpiece... Is it us ?...

If so...

How did you paint your part of it?"

I remained silent, that was a strange way to start a conversation yet...

I understood what he meant by that. The masterpiece, the white canvas, and the devil never stop as it continues to paint red on the canvas.

" The canvas was white yet splattered with black . These innocent painters weren't red. It was all black and white. There was one white figure but there was always a shadow beside them, it always felt something was missing on the canvas but the painter doesn't know what to fill in.

The devil that was covered in red always kept splattering the canvas with more black covering the painter's canvas.

The missing thing to add to the canvas was the masterpiece. However, it wasn't one person.

Then the canvas is red and black with bits of white."

We both remain silent for a moment. "So, you understand what I meant," Kiyo said and I nodded. "I guess so. I finished the part." I let out a sigh, I turned to look at Kiyotaka.

"You're from that room, aren't you?" I ask, finally after all this time. It was the right moment to speak about that topic. "I am. I thought I was the last survivor of that generation. When I first met you, I had my doubts."

"Hm? Doubts about what?" I questioned him. He faces me, "Someone from the white room. Blood relations. Especially someone I didn't know was my sister. A twin." I chuckled a bit from his comment.

"Seems to be. I thought it was a freaky coincidence." I said. Thinking back on what happened, Kiyo did something like defend me after Sudo's creepy approach.

He's always "close" to me and I always felt like that missing presence has been filled.

"Let me reintroduce myself, I'm Ayanokouji Miyako," I said although it felt weird for me to say my biological name. Kiyotaka only nods. "Why did you hide your surname?" Yep, knew he was going to go with that question.

"The man who helped me escape that room told me I should keep myself from seeking attention. It was just to keep you and me safe from that man." I will explain the reason why I hid my family name.

"However, it was a pointless attempt. My school ID had to show my biological name since government rules and just students spurring rumors. Especially because my appearance is too identical to yours." I added to my explanation and let out another sigh.

I heard Horikita was slowly waking up. "Oh. Good timing..." I look away from Kiyotaka, looking at my ankle which is now purple.

Horkita slowly gets up, looking around the place. "Awake?" Kiyo asks as Horikita faces him. "Where am I? What are you doing here?" Looks like she couldn't see me. Well obviously because I'm on the opposite side of the tree.

"I found you passed out and brought you here," Kiyo says. Oh well, I guess he wanted me to remain hidden for now. "I ran after Ibuki-san, who stole the keycard... But I couldn't get it back." Horikita explains what happened during the event.

"I see but Horikita, you should drop out," Kiyo said with a straightforward answer. He stood up from the ground.

"I'll figure out a way to handle Ibuki and the keycard. You can't hold out any longer. It's just what Akiyama said. The longer you stay, it may get worse." He explains his reasons why she should drop out but Horikita remains stubborn.

"We can't afford to lose any more points because of me. But... I don't have a choice. To reach class A..." Horikita, why are you always trying to aim for class A? Wouldn't it be acceptable to take class B?

"Why are you so obsessed with class A?" I blink and I look at Kiyo. Did he read my mind or something? Is this what people say about twin telepathy?

"It's all to gain my brother's acknowledgment." She answers his question.

"What good will having that do you? What is it you hope to do? " He starts walking towards Horikita. I peaked over to see what was happening.

"I'm responsible for all of it. If I'd had Allies, we could have taken shifts to protect the card. But... since I don't have any friends like that..." Horikita continues to speak what's in her mind. I noticed Kiyo is doing something.

What is he doing?... I can't see it.

"I brought this all on myself." Is Horikita crying?... I couldn't tell but her voice sounded like it was trembling.

"You're starting to feel like you need allies, then?"

"I swear I'll make up for this failure. Even if I had to do it alone."

"You can't do it alone. You're not that strong. Sorry to tell you." Kiyo says. If Horikita was in good condition then she would try to slap him by that comment.

"You're telling me to give up?" Not really of what he's saying. However, Your condition got worse so it's reasonable to drop out of Horikita.

"I didn't say that. There's no need to give up. If you want to fight by yourself, fight with another. I'll help you." That was a weird way to say things like that...

"You're not... the kind of person... who says things like that..." Horikita slowly went back to sleep. I stood up. "What did you do?" I ask and he looks at me. "Nothing much..." I sigh then grab Horikita's arm, wrapping around my neck.

"Help me carry her. Considering what just happened. Two of us should carry her." I suggested what to do with Horikita from now on. Kiyo nods in agreement.

[Sensei camp]

We both carry Horikita from the forest to the beach. I see a bright light illuminating the tent. "Well, we found them..." I sighed as we both walked up to Chabashira-Sensei.

Chabashira-Sensei was looking at her tablet as Kiyotaka approached her. "Excuse us."

"Hm? Horikita... what happened?" Chabashira-Sensei stood up from her seat, looking at us then Horikita. "She passed out with a fever. Please take her to rest immediately." Kiyo explains the situation.

Chabashira-Sensei looks back at us, thinking about what to do since this will affect class D's points. "She'll have to drop out. Do you both accept that?" She asks and we nod. "Yes." We said.

We have Horikita in Chabashira-Sensei's care. Oh well, it wouldn't affect much of our score anyway...

[Forest]

After we are finished with Horikita's illness. There was an awkward silence between us as we were heading back to our camp.

Kiyotaka spoke up. "So, does it hurt?" That's what he wanted to talk about? And I thought I was doing a good job hiding the fact that I'm injured.

"My ankle or your idiocracy?" Kiyo looks at me and shakes his head. "Neither. But, rather the fact that you haven't once spoken about the elephant in the room." He said as I let out a sigh.

"So you are referring to that?" I ask him and he nods. "Well, why wouldn't it hurt?"

"In the white room, there was a lack of social release of pain, which caused more cases of depression and breaking points. Considering you have more emotions than me, it's an obvious deduction that you are more hurt trying to keep the talk away from our conversation to maintain the vague bond that we are yet to define." He explains it.

But over a sprained ankle?

"I guess so." Suddenly Kiyotaka walks in front of me as I bump into him. "What?" I'm getting a bit cautious. What is he going to do?

"We have not walked far from sensei's tent yet."

"And?..." I was about to walk past him but was suddenly yanked back. I turned to look at him, I was about to ask what was that for but his eyes were glaring at me. "Get on." He asks in demand. Wait for what?

"Get on what?" I question it. What's with the sudden behavior?

.

.

.

.

.

.

I was being carried, backpack style as I cling to Kiyo's neck so I wouldn't fall. He even added a splinter just by using his jacket for my ankle.

It isn't even that bad...

This is embarrassing. Yet I don't feel very flustered, unlike the other girls who would be in this position.

"Okay 'Onii-Chan' I would request if you can drop me," I said but he didn't release me.

"Kiyo. It doesn't even hurt." I tried to convince him to stop carrying me but he ignored me. "It may get worse if you continue walking with it." He responded and I sigh.

"Fine. Besides this may be good for your part since you wouldn't like for me to intervene in your plan." He remains silent after what I have said.

[Class D camp]
Kiyotaka's POV

I set Miyako down on the ground, next to the girls' tent. "Miyako, I want you to lay down and not do any movement. I'll tell Hirata what happened." I said as Miyako sighed.

"My ankle is fine." Miyako tries to stand up but I grab her shoulders, forcing her to sit back down.

"Just go inside the tent. You shouldn't run or walk with it until you have recovered." I insisted she needs to rest. Miyako noticed this and gave up on trying.

"Try not to lose your bishop," she said, then Miyako went inside the tent. Losing my bishop? Was this just some form of good luck? If so, I don't have to lose anything.

It was unexpected that a person such as Miyako could figure out my sadistic plan yet she's alright with it...

My questions were answered. She is from the white room and my younger twin sister. Judging by how she answered my words while we were taking a break.

She was blindfolded and the devil also known as our father would take her away from the white room. My assumption would be to separate us. To know we're not related.

Knowing our father, he thinks familial love is a defect. Although, my sister seems to still have her emotions...

Unlike me who sacrificed my humanity.

How did she manage to hold onto some of it?

I approached Hirata. "Sorry to intervene but I need to talk with Hirata for a moment." The girls didn't seem too happy about this.

Hirata sighed and stood up. "It'll be fine. I'll be back in a bit." Hirata turns around, "So, Ayanokouji-kun. What's up?" He asks as we walk away from the group standing next to the river.

Hirata sat on the floor and I remained standing up. I told everything about what happened. Hirata seems to be frustrated by this. He had his hands cupped up, leaning his head towards it. "So... that's what happened?" He whispers.

"Yeah. Thought you were the only one I've told. It suggests Ibuki infiltrated class D to find our leader. She probably stole the panties too." I said, Hirata remains to keep his head low.

"But why? No, thinking won't get us anywhere. The greater worry is tomorrow, they'll name our leader." Hirata remains a bit frustrated, even scared.

"The penalty from our dropouts and a guessed leader alone will be minus 110 S-points. Having our leader guess will negate all our bonus points."

"Which only leaves 50 points?" Hirata is distraught by the results of two dropouts due to Koenji and Horikita and the total of our class points.

"Once the test results are revealed, the finger-pointing will start..."

"It'll become a witch trial."

"I thought this test would be a chance for our class to come together... I thought if we could work together to beat this, it would forge bonds between us..." Hirata said, whose voice is quiet, slowly sinking to despair.

I continue to look down at Hirata who is just in despair, distraught. "This could be the end of class D," Hirata says, ''I remain silent for a moment.

"Hirata... there's a favor I want to ask you."

[Island exam - final day of the week]
Miyako's POV

Final day. The day where we need to put our guesses on who is the leader in each class. I look at Hirata who is uncertain about what to name the leaders.

I heard someone approaching and I turned to see it was Karuizawa. "Are you going to help out?" She asks as I gesture my head a no.

"Ayanokouji-kun kinda forcing me to minimize movement," I answered her question, and Karuizawa clicked her tongue. "Why do you hang out with a guy that's so anonymous?"

"Does that make me anonymous too? If I recall correctly. On the 5th day of the week, you claimed Ayanokouji-kun to be invisible and inoffensive. You even said it yourself when I defended him." I said, looking away from Karuizawa.

"... I don't get you at all. A person who looks too parallel from him and yet..."

"Yet what?" I asked and Karuizawa didn't say anything else after that. "No matter, the test is done. I'm going to be helping out with others while you sit here doing nothing." She finished our conversation and walked away from me.

Did I make Karuizawa hate me more? My bad.

[The beachfront]

We all are lined up, waiting for the results of the island exam. Hirata just seems to be scared of something while everyone else is worried about it.

I was standing next to Kiyotaka, and I looked at him. "Did it go well?" He only gave me a nod. Well, looks like...

I... no. Kiyotaka won the game.

"Don't think you forgot about me, right?" Everyone turns around to see Ryuen, just in a mess. I can tell he didn't have good hygiene because his clothing wrinkled and just the dirt around him

"Wait, why is Ryuen here? Where's Ibuki-san? I thought all of class C retired." That's everyone's reaction right now besides Kiyo and me.

Katsuragi walks up to Ryuen. "Good work, Ryuen. We of Class A will earn over 500 S points. Let me extend a hand of gratitude for your hard work."

"Hey, now. You're about to see something interesting." Karsuragi seems to be suspicious of Ryuen's response. "What do you mean by that?"

The teacher that had the megaphone stood on the platform. "I will now announce the results of this island exam."

"Coming in last, fourth place. Class C with zero points. Next in third place, Class A with 120 points. In second place, Class B with 140 points. Lastly, first place is Class D with 225 points. That is all." I glance to look at Class C and Class A, their face was pure disbelief.

Everyone is now confused. "Wait we won?" Sakura ask, unsure about the results then everyone started to dance in the joy that they won. Hirata sighed in relief that we have reached first place.

[The sparrow]

So, the first thing we arrive back from the island is a monkey man laughing at us with his drink. "Welcome back from the test!" He continues to laugh, Sudo isn't taking it too lightly and yelled at Koenji that the class lost 30 points.

I remain to stand behind the group away from them. I notice Kiyo walking away and I follow him behind. "Why are you following me?" He ask as I shrugged.

"I rather hang with you instead of being with a group, especially a monkey. I wouldn't want to not deal with Sudo's temper." I answered his question and Kiyotaka sighed.

"Your ankle is still recovering." He said and I shrugged it off again as it isn't a big deal. "Then don't be my prince charming of carrying me everywhere. I can handle it."

We walk up the stairs to head to the observation deck. "Wait...!" Kiyotaka and I stopped. I turn to see Horikita, who was out of breath. "What's going on?" I look at Kiyo, so who's going to explain?

[Obversation deck]

"Huh?"

"You're not our leader, Horikita," Kiyotaka says once again. "What? But the card..." Kiyotaka pulls it out of his pocket, showing the green card as Horikita looks at it.

「Keycard」
--

Kiyotaka Ayanokouji

———————-
"What's your name doing on it?" Horikita asks and looks at Kiyo. "Just before the test ended, I changed D's leader. You can't change leaders without a good reason." He explains the reason why the keycard has his name on it.

"In the manual, it said that you can change leaders if it is reasonable. A leader's failing health is a good reason. So as the result, Ryuen and Katsuragi named you as the leader and they guessed wrong." I added more to his explanation as I lean against the railing, looking at the sea.

"You both arranged all of this, didn't you?" Horikita questions but I shook my head. "Kiyo-kun did, I only figured it out and was simply someone who was on the sidelines. A knight who is just following the plan." I answered, Kiyo looks at me. Did my words come out strange or something?

"Ibuki was a spy so I destroyed her digital camera. As a result, Ibuki would need to steal the keycard itself. We waited until your condition had deteriorated sufficiently. I intentionally for you to show your card to Ibuki, got you dirty. got you to visit the waterfall and lured Ibuki into stealing your card." Kiyo shares more about his plan.

"So, you baited Yamauchi-kun to put mud on Horikita-san? No wonder, Yamauchi-kun wouldn't do something like that unless a deal was made." Yeah, I didn't figure out why Yamauchi put mud onto Horikita's head till now.

"Then, how did you predict Ayanokouji's plan?" I remain to stay silent for the moment, just the breeze through my hair, swaying.

"I was able to confirm this since Ibuki's eyes were looking straight at Kiyotaka but I noticed you were pulling something. After you visited the waterfall, I went there to check on you. Your face seem to be troubled and you walked away from me. It was clear that the plan worked." I responded.

"I used the arson to throw the camp into a panic, giving Ibuki the opening she needed to escape with your card."

"It was you? I thought it would be Ayanokouji-kun..." Hoirkita is surprised or in disbelief that the plan went out so smoothly, she looks at Kiyotaka. I lend off from the railing, turning to look at Horikita.

"Ryuen was the leader because his personality seems to be one. Keywords with a ruler and disobedient servants. It was clear that he sent Ibuki-san and the other person to Class D and Class B camps as spies." I add the reason how I know that Ryuen is Class C's leader. Kiyotaka lends away from the railing, walking away from it.

"Then, just as they'd planned it, she went to show Ryuen the card."

"Then you got me to drop out and changed our leader," Horikita said. We nodded that she was understanding Kiyo's plan. "Initially, I'd hoped to earn points through spot occupation, but I saw Katsuragi leaving a spot with a card in hand."

"So A's leader was Katsuragi-kun?" I shook my head. "No, it wasn't. It was his henchmen, Yahiko-kun." Horikita's eyes widen a bit. "Why?"

"Katsuragi is a cautious man. He wouldn't do anything so careless. He wouldn't even occupy a spot at a time when someone else might see him. It was a performance to conceal the fact that someone else had occupied the spot without asking him first. Thus, I was able to surmise that A's leader was Yahiko, the person with him then." Kiyo answers more reasons why.

"He was even boldly saying out loud that he was the leader, he is responsible for supervising his classmates. it was another clue for me that Yahiko is the leader." I added another reason.

"As for class C, I knew that Ryuen was still on the island. Miyako went to check on it and she found a radio that was dug into the dirt and then covered. With Miyako's explanation of his personality and his keywords, I was certain that Ryuen is the class C leader."

"It was at that point that I switched from a spot occupation strategy to a leader identification strategy and I used you. I left class B alone. In the long run, eroding our alliance with Class B would be to our disadvantage. They even had a spy from C in class B too. So I confirmed that their leader would be guessed even without any action from me." Kiyotaka said, putting his hands in his pockets.

"And as you surmised, B's leader was guessed, causing them a serious loss of points." Horikita says and I nod. "Having one's leader named is a loss of 50 points and all the bonus points are negated as a result." I stated.

"You both really put one over on everyone. You guys claim that you both have no interest in reaching Class A. Why then did you help me?" Horikita ask, I let out a sigh.

Honestly, the reason we're helping is that we were asked by Sensei herself to "work" up to class A.

"What is it that drives you two?" We remain silent, it was the perfect moment that everyone in class D interrupted our conversation, Horikita as the celebrity. Someone who saved the class.

I look at Kiyotaka as I was dragged away by him. "I do recall that you don't like being around a crowd." Guess he's now trying to be a brother action? I don't know his motives now at this point.

Ever since we both were fully convinced that we are related, Kiyotaka has been close to me as ever and I just wanted to be around him. I guess this is what people call a separation problem?

"Eh? Ayankouji-kun? Can we talk for a moment-" I interrupted Kushida.

"How about no Kushida-san? As you see, I'm being dragged to go eat ice cream..." I pointed at Kiyotaka as Kushida remains to have that fake smile. "Oh, alright then. Have fun you two!" I heard a phone notification. Kiyotaka stops dragging me and lets go of my wrist, he pulls out his phone.

"Got somewhere to go?" I ask and he faces me, giving me a nod. "I'll be in my room then." I wave bye-bye as I walk away from him.

[Theater]
Kiyotaka's POV

I have arrived at the destination where Chabashira-sensei wanted to meet at. I saw her sitting in the front row, I approach her. "First, allow me to commend you. I'm genuinely impressed." Chabashira-sensei said as I remain to have my hands in my pockets.

"You're satisfied then? Then tell me..." I look at Chabashira-sensei. "Is it true that man asked you to have me and Miyako to be expelled?" Chabashira-sensei remains to smile.

"You figured out that your connection is your sister, Ayanokouji Miyako. I congratulate you on finding your younger twin sister."

"So you knew then. But, I know she and I won't do any more for you without proof."

"I know everything about you and your sister. That's proof enough, isn't it?" I remain silent on Chabashira-sensei's response to my question.

"The wings of Icarus." Why does she keep bringing up that ancient greek mythology? "What about it?" I ask as I look up at the sunset, the white bird that is soaring in the skies.

"Icarus took the flight to be free. But only because his father Daedalus instructed him to make the wings and take flight. He wasn't flying of his own free will. Doesn't that sound just like you?" Chabashira-sensei opens up a box of cigarettes but finds out it was empty, she crushed it up.

She stood up from her seat. "That man, your father said this. ' Someday, Kiyotaka and Miyako will choose expulsion of their own accord.' You'll burn your wings under the sun, fall into the sea and die." She started walking away from me but stopped.

"It's out of the question."

"Poor, tragic Icarus. What will you do next?"

...

"I think you know that. Icarus didn't heed Daedalus's warnings."

After that meeting, I remain to stay in the theater. It was dark yet quiet, peaceful. I let out a sigh and I started walking out of the place.

I stopped to hear someone that is out of exhaustion, panting. "I f- I finally found you." it was Horikita once again.

"You again? What is it now?"

"Hirata-kun told me. When you told him A and C's leaders, you said I was the one who figured it all out." I remain silent by her words.

"And after the test was over, you asked him to work to bring the class together. Are you trying to use me as a cover?" I blinked at her accusation of me using her as a coverup.

"Horikita, do you remember what I said back then? You need allies." Horikita is a bit shocked by my response. "You did it for that?" I look away from Horikita.

"You've finally started to change."

"It's your fault... Grudgingly, I will acknowledge you as an ally too." Is this a behavior of a tsundere? Her face is a bit pink.

"Still, I don't want you acting all buddy-buddy with me once we're back at school. We're only working together to reach class A. But... I wanna say one thing. Thank you... Not that I'm saying that I need you or anything" Her words are slowly muffling.

...

Third-person POV

Kiyotaka is still listening to Horikita but to him, her words are just silent.

But Horikita, I've never once thought of you as an ally . Not you. Not Kushida. Not Hirata. All people are nothing but tools.

——— (Miyako) ——-
Miyako was sitting on her bed, just playing with her chess pieces. Simply playing on her own.

I'll use all the pawns in my disposable. Any pawn. I never had seen anyone as an ally . All I care about is winning the game. This game of so-called freedom.

——— (Kiyotaka)——-

It doesn't matter how it's done. It doesn't matter what needs to be sacrificed. In this world, winning is everything . As long as I win in the end...

——— (Miyako) ——-

In this world, winning is everything in order to survive. I'll take over the board and steal your throne to achieve that. In the end, I am going to win.

——— (Kiyotaka) ——-

However, there is only one person that I consider an ally. Someone equal to me. Someone that may teach me how it feels to have familial love.

——— (Miyako) ——-

Although. There's only one piece that I value the most. The missing piece that I felt it was missing all my life. And I won't lose it ever again.

——————

And that person is...

And that missing piece is...

—————-

Miyako knocked off the enemy's queen with her king. She looks at the fallen piece.

My older brother, Kiyotaka.

Kiyotaka continues to just stare at the midnight sky.

My younger sister, Miyako.

—————-

I will not lose it.

I will use her, as a valuable asset.

Miyako's and Kiyotaka's monologue

That's all that matters.

—————
Chapter Seventeen- Season one: episode twelve Chessboard's missing piece

T o b e c o n t i n u e d

Author: oh my. What a journey. We got Miyako and Kiyo reveal to each other that they are related. So, I finished the anime of season one.

Especially their end dialogue. I wanted the twins to like have the similar concept except Miyako is chess talk while Kiyo is just tool talk. Miyako has found the missing piece and Kiyo found the most excellent tool to use.

So what's gonna happen? Well first, ima taking a break. It's been fun writing this story and I appreciate all the comments you guys. Even though this story is trash or may be boring to you guys but I appreciate again for sticking out here for so long!

I plan to wait for season two since I did stated from chapter one that I am not a light novel reader, although I do plan to buy some books and read them in my spare time. Who knows I may update this book again with volume four. Especially KEI-

Sate sate~ I shall poof away. See you all in July. Maybe.

- scarleto

((Here goes my art of Miyako))

((First time drawing digital okay-))

((Little smol child Miyako))

April 15, 2022
Words: 6018

Mostly thank support by mister S, check out his stories like they're really great.
MrS_S_AA

Welcome to Season two of this story

Well. It's been like since April 15th that I have updated this? *lets out a sigh and claps* it's returning VERY soon of Miyako's story with kiyo.

So, I'm glad you have waited this long for an update. I'm still planning to work on it but I was waiting for COTE season two to come out which it's in three days. EHEHEHEHEH!

In the meanwhile, let's talk about the elephant in the room~

Why were the twins separated?

Kiyo and Miyako didn't know each other till they well met in school. The reason is their father (evil professor). Their childhood was in the white room as usual in every COTE story but Miyako is being taken out of the WR to prevent them from seeing each other.

So her lessons remain to be well, in the mansion. Of course, she was being blindfolded so to her, the world was always dark. She does come back to the white room sometimes and even has a "friend" name Hachi to accompany her.

Fact; Hachi means eight in Japanese.

To professor Ayanokouji, love is a foolish thing that may hinder his children to be "perfect". So he keeps them separated to not learn familial love.

~~~~~~

And that is all I have to say about why the twins are separated. Hope it clears it up. Now then, let's get to more info about Miyako.

Why are we like focused on Miyako instead of Ayanokouji's POV?

Sometimes I put the chapter as Ayanokouji's pov but most of the time, the story involves Miyako. Yes, it's an OC and some of you don't like it which I apologized for that. I intended to aim the story from Miyako's POV. Besides, she hangs out with kiyo all the time.

Yes, sometimes I put Miyako to replace some of the scenes with kiyo but I have my reasons why I did it. This story is basically how Miyako's thoughts about the whole situation and how she feels. Plus twins and how would they well, be family.

We already know how Kiyo thinks, right Light novel readers? *looks at you*

~~~~~~

So, I did read COTE volume 4. I have plans for the chapters but I wanna see the anime episode first and visualize then write it. So that's why I'm waiting~

I want to try and give you guys not a boring story. I know it may seem like it to some of you.

Overall, ya. So, let's speak about Miyako.

~~~~

Her name has a meaning ehe.

Miyako means beautiful: city and child.
Which Miyako is beautiful, besides looking identical to Kiyo. A city is colorful and bright and she does act like a child. She is Kiyo's younger twin sister.

Akiyama means autumn mountains. She has autumn hair cause brown ehe. And a mountain means she's on top of it. Which shows that she's just the queen of the chessboard. The number one important piece of the game.

So you have noticed miyako's little behavior of letting out a certain emotion. Her father's words just there in her mind. It's a reminder that she doesn't want to expose her emotions otherwise it will make her "weak".

Even have a disadvantage on this game that she's trying to win.

~~~~~

Now, that is all I have to say. I don't want to spoil much of my plans after all. Thank you again for waiting.

A new cover of the story. Thanks to the person who drew this~

The original isn't very bright but she requested me to add effects sooo yay bright.

Here's her link to her Instagram to see more of her art./miyuartz_?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

thanks again!

Now, see you soon...

Next chapter.

"Days would go on, and on. Normal lives, normal criminal activity. Unless someone breaks the normal routine cycle."

So, a quick note on status-

The place was dark, just an empty desk. A person who's wearing a hood over their head sits down.

Well, hi! Yes, I was suppose to update this story with season two episode one but I just been stumped. Think I have hit writers block since I have no like... certain ways to interact with Miyako and a certain character. Like Hirata.

Besides writers block, my mental health been so great but I'm physically fine. Just struggling to cope with what I enjoy... ;;

So, I was wondering if I can get some suggestions from you guys! Since I plan Miyako and Hirata-Kun to have.. a certain relationship like with Kiyo and Kei situation~

Totally I'm waiting for that... SCENE EHE!

But anyway, I do have a preview of what I've been writing on.

And here's part two~

Anyway, that is all I have well worked on. But overall, I do need suggestions on Miyako's conversations with Hirata. You can also give me some like ideas. It'll would really help me and my dumb writers block. ; ;

Anyway, that is all.. Thank you for reading and waiting patiently for the chapter.

I may delete this chapter once I have enough suggestions. I'll reply to them if you commented.

The cloak figure stood up from the chair and walks into the darkness.

Chapter Eighteen: A temporary vacation once again

[Beware there are OOC moments and this chapter follows the LN scenes since I probably know most of volume 4. But I will still follow the anime adaptation.]

Each passing time, it can be quite peaceful. But one second later or a minute, even a day. The whole scenario has changed to ruin your short break from your peaceful time.

[The Sparrow]
Kiyotaka's POV

Three days since the island exam. No other special test occurred after that. Those days it's been very lively, our classmates are having fun in the swimming pool.

It is clear broad light, the breeze going past me. "Guess everyone has gone back to thinking this is summer break. No test to ruin their fun..." I look at someone who was standing next to me, leaning against the railing. She looks back at me.

Well, besides the island exam. I have discovered quite unexpected but I had my suspicions about her. Miyako is my younger twin sister.

I was expecting her to be related to me but I never thought I would be a twin. We do look exactly alike. But, now. With her around, someone with similar capabilities as me.

She is an excellent tool for me to use.

"Seems so. It is gentle and peaceful, the summer vacation truly started and everyone has actual fun, pleasant trip. Everyone just became increasingly lax." I look back at the clear blue skies with seagulls flying out there.

"It's quite annoying to hear people have fun, this school is quite unpredictable. We might even get a test right now." Miyako says, looking at me and I remain to look at the ocean. The scent of the ocean breeze as her hair fluttered through the wind.

She leans closer to me. I look at her, making eye contact. "You have something in your mind." She whispers and I let out a sigh. "Does my face give a clear giveaway?" I ask as she shrugs. "Instincts I suppose."

"Three days ago, after the results. Chabashira-sensei sent me an email to meet her at the theaters." I kept my voice lowered so Miyako can only hear it. "I suppose you know the reason why we entered into this school?"

"The rule that contact with anyone outside is forbidden until graduation. It's the number one reason why we are even here to be away from that man." Miyako answers. "Oh, I thought your reason would be freedom. From that room, you seem so desperate to get out of there."

Miyako let out a soft chuckle. "Was I? It was just a reason before anyone raise suspicion that I was only here just because of that rule. I rather spend my next two years without any chains bound to me." I blink at her response, I look back at the ocean.

"Chabashira-sensei told me a certain man has been forcibly trying to establish contact with us.." Miyako has her hand leaning on her chin, continuing to listen.

[Flashback to the theater, three days ago]

"You're satisfied then? Then tell me..." I look at Chabashira-sensei. "Is it true that man asked you to have me and Miyako to be expelled?" Chabashira-sensei remains to smile.

"You figured out that your connection is your sister, Ayanokouji Miyako. I congratulate you on finding your younger twin sister."

"So you knew then. But, I know she and I won't do any more for you without proof."

"I know everything about you and your sister. That's proof enough, isn't it?" I remain silent on Chabashira-sensei's response to my question.

"The wings of Icarus." Why does she keep bringing up that ancient greek mythology? "What about it?" I ask as I look up at the sunset, the white bird that is soaring in the skies.

"Icarus took the flight to be free. But only because his father Daedalus instructed him to make the wings and take flight. He wasn't flying of his own free will. Doesn't that sound just like you?" Chabashira-sensei opens up a box of cigarettes but finds out it was empty, she crushed it up.

She stood up from her seat. "That man, your father said this. ' Someday, Kiyotaka and Miyako will choose expulsion of their own accord.' You'll burn your wings under the sun, fall into the sea and die." She started walking away from me but stopped.

"What will you do then?"

[flashback ended]

"So, she's using this tactic and threatened you that you'll be expelled from this school if you don't cooperate to work towards class A," Miyako explains what she has understood so far just by my explanation.

"Along with me being expelled too. Well, we can't do anything. She has higher power than us. Even though we haven't done any... trouble with the school so we just have to follow her till we find a way.." I remain silent and look back at Miyako.

"I don't intend to dance with our homeroom teacher's tune forever. It's better to get them before they get you.. " I spoke up about the situation as Miyako sighed and leans off from her chin.

"Kiyo-kun, it doesn't mean I'm going to agree and follow their tune forever. Besides, I don't tend to be a weak piece to their game... A queen must try and protect their king after all. Not a petite pawn.. " Miyako says and turns back to look at the students playing in the swimming pool and having fun.

"Oh, Ayanokouji-kun and Akiyama-san! You're both hanging out with each other again?" I turn to see who that voice was, it was Hirata. "You both haven't been in your room all day, haven't you guys?"

"... Miyako and I barely don't have any friends to hang out with. So there is no reason for both of us to go out." Hirata seems a bit suspicious and kinda surprised.

"Eh? That's not true though. I mean, you have Sudo-kun and the guys and Horikita-san. Plus, Akiyama-san seems to be close to you. Shouldn't you spend time with her like going somewhere fun instead of looking out to the sea?" Hirata said and I look at Miyako who shrugs it off.

"I don't mind. I'm only here because we were just talking about the school's future plans." Miyako made up an excuse as Hirata chuckles. "If you say so, Akiyama-san but you should try to lower your guard down. We should be spending the time we have." Miyako folds her arms and looks at Hirata.

"Knowing this school, that time we have available can change to a matter of minutes or seconds. That's why we're barely hanging out with other students and those guys Kiyo-kun usually hangs out." Certainly true but knowing these types of people. I would find it hard to believe that I was categorized as a 'friend' by them.

But the bottom definition of the friends' category is treated differently. Some people think they are so high leveled and deserve attention. While there is one behind the group. A lowly friend. That lowly friend who barely was a part of the group, ten percent of the time. I would be that friend who barely gets invited.

"Well, you both would have more friends if you are a little proactive, though I suppose it's none of my business." I stare at him after that comment.

Stare...

"Hey, Kiyo-kun." Miyako waves her hand over my face and broke my stare to look at her. "Well, Hirata-kun. Kiyo just seems to be quiet and just socially awkward. He doesn't know if he will be able to fit in with the group. I'm already friends with Kushida-san but she's busy with others so that's why." Miyako explains another reason, probably just for Hirata to get off our backs just because we have a lack of friends.

I mean, Hirata is popular and admired by other girls considering what happened in the island exam, honestly, a man like him who's full of happiness probably wouldn't understand loneliness...

"I'm planning to meet up with Karuizawa-san and the others at 12:30 to have lunch. Do you guys want to come with me? I think it'll be fun." Miyako looks at me like I need to say something.

"Wait, Karuizawa and the others?" I asked and Hirata nodded. "Yeah, there are about three other girls. Do you both wanna come and eat with us?" I'm thinking about what I should say. I wanted to interact with Karuizawa for quite a while now but there isn't a need to hurry. I can just wait for another opportunity...

"I'll pass. I don't think I'm on especially good terms with Karuizawa's group." I denied the offer but Hirata looks at Miyako. She seems to be thinking about what she'll say.

"Hm, if it's Karuizawa-san's group then I'm agreeing with Kiyo. Considering what happened during the island exam, I think our presence will make things more worst." Good reasoning as always Miyako.

"Well, I can cancel Karuizawa-san's lunch group, I eat with them anytime but I barely eat with you two. You both seem to be hanging out with each other all the time... Would it be that the rumors in our class are-"

I stopped him before letting him finish what he was about to say. "No. We aren't considered to be in a close relationship. We're just friends." Miyako let out a sigh, she seems annoyed that now the rumors spurred out.

"Hirata-kun. It would be a bit disrespectful assuming we're dating. Honestly, this school is quite bothersome. Even our class." Miyako folds her arms and turns her head to gaze at the ocean. "Then I apologize if I offend you Akiyama-san. So uh, about my offer. Do you just wanna come and eat lunch with me instead?"

"I appreciate the offer. But.." she glanced at me. Miyako pulls out her phone checks the time and lets out a sigh. "You have ten minutes before you have to meet them. It's better for the three of us if you just leave Kiyo and me here." Hirata remains to have that optimistic smile on his face. He doesn't seem to give up.

"There's no need to rush, I would like to spend my time with you guys. We barely hung out and besides, I think Ayanokouji-kun is a solid person, just not finding the right opportunity. Though Akiyama-san, you seem to have found the opportunity of interacting with him, and you get along with Sudo-kun and the other boys in his group." He said that the first part of what he said seemed to be directed toward me.

Such kind words are yet hurtful. Honestly, I don't know how Miyako handles conversations so well. I get it's to raise my self-esteem or confidence but I would go out and reply with a lame answer. I spend time by myself because I can't make friends or get a girlfriend. You freaking idiot...

"Hirata-kun, I'll think about the offer but uh, knowing Kiyo-kun and Karuizawa-san's opinions about him. I'm sure he would try to avoid it." Miyako says as she remains to have that unexpressed face. I guess we do look alike since she barely expresses some sort of emotion.

Miyako is like the other half of myself so it's easier for us to communicate. Guess that's how twins are.

"I'm sure Karuizawa-san will have her opinion be changed sooner when Ayanokouji-kun kinda interacts more often with other people. You seem to be doing fine though." More directed comments. I wonder if I should feel a bit.. insulted now. A popular guy who's surrounded by girls and has a loving "girlfriend" can never understand how it feels to be out of the crowd and just be lonely...

"But Hirata. We may feel bad if we had to eat with you and know Karuizawa. She'll just blame you later since well, you're bringing a girl and a boy. What if she considers that you're cheating on her with another girl? Including quote on quote.. 'invisible and inoffensive' boy that you're hanging out with." I spoke with reason again, letting Miyako have a break and trying her best. If she is even trying to get Hirata to leave us alone.

Even gently trying to turn him but it seems to appeal to his conscience. Wondering if Hirata considered us trembling newborns that couldn't even learn the first step.

"Ayanokouji-kun, there's no need to worry. I don't think Karuizawa-san's the kind of girl to hold the grudge." I look at Miyako. Yep, her face seems to have full of doubt or uncertainty.

Knowing Karuizawa, she would definitely seem like that kind of girl. She pretends to be nice in front of Hirata but out of his range, she's quite.. rude.

"Please Hirata-kun, we just don't wanna make things worst with Karuiza-" Hirata pulls out his phone, not letting Miyako finish what she was about to say then he starts calling. I tried to stop him. "Wait, Hirata-" he shot me a look. "Is there anything you both want to eat?"

"I thought I have said that I denied your offer.." I felt a tug on my arm and turn to look at Miyako. "Let's hear him out then. He doesn't seem to give up on us. The more we try to convince him, he's just going to push harder." She spoke in a quiet tone while Hirata is calling Karuizawa. I took a moment to think about it.

"..." I let out a sigh then turn my attention towards Hirata. "I can eat just about anything I guess... I prefer to avoid heavy food if possible." I muttered. Hirata turns his attention towards Miyako. "And you?" Miyako remains silent. "Well, I rather just eat something like soft foods. Soup or whatever.." Miyako answers.

We both hear Hirata get in the line with Karuizawa and flatly told her that he's canceling their plans. I couldn't hear through the phone but Karuizawa was about to be quite.. angry. Hirata abruptly hung up the line.

"So, shall we go now?" We both look at him. "Are you sure it's okay?" I asked. He nodded. "Yeah, it's okay! Come on, I'll guide you both to the restaurant."

This sure feels like an ulterior plan considering how he's trying so hard to invite us. Miyako wants to hear him out first so, I guess I'll just spend some time with him.

[The sparrow - top level: restaurant]
Miyako's POV

Well, things went crappy. I honestly went up to Kiyo and was willing to ask for information about what happened three days ago. My original plan was to head back into my room after I talked with him. But plans changed, now with Hirata's request to hang out...

Now here we are, walking with Hirata and heading to the restaurant that's on the top floor. The only reason that I wanted to hear him out is that this may be my opportunity to try and get to know him. At least he won't be populated by girls as usual.

We managed to sneak through the fancy crowd and find ourselves three available seats. Yep, I feel completely out of place here. It looks like a place for couples and I'm the only girl here with two boys.

Is it weird? Probably. But this entire ordeal of him trying to convince Kiyo and me to go out with him for lunch is quite... out of the ordinary. Wouldn't he be spending his time with his girlfriend more than a few nobodies who are invisible to the class?

We sat down on the three empty chairs and I grab the menu that was on the table and looked down at it. It's just fancy meals that aren't typically severed to a commoner who can't even afford such high-quality meals. Meals like Soupe à l'oignon is a French cuisine of soup made of onions and beef stock that is served with croutons with melted cheese.

"There's something I'd like both of your pieces of advice on." Figures. He did have an ulterior motive. But what is it about that makes us want to go out and eat while his girlfriend goes and tells her friends that her boyfriend decided to cancel their plans on a date?

Should I be the one who gives advice? Knowing Kiyo, he would probably suck at it. Though, truth be told.

Both of us suck at giving good advice. The internet could do a better job than us.

I keep staring down at the menu, avoiding eye contact. "Advice huh?... May I ask why you would think our advice could be quite helpful?" Hirata remains to have that smile and I set the menu down, raising my head to make eye contact.

"I'm not the best person when it comes to advise though. Can you give me a short version?" Kiyo asked. "Oh. Well, I was wondering if either of you would act as a bridge to help reach Horikita-san. After all, class D will have to come together and work hard in the future and I think Horikita-san will be indispensable." Hirata explains the short version of why he selected us.

Here we go again, with kiyo spreading the word that Horikita-san was the one who orchestrated the island exam and that class D got a major boost in class points. That means other classes will be more cautious around us or be the ones to prioritize targeting us in the future.

It's not going to be a problem. When Kiyo nodded, Hirata continued to explain with confidence. "The other day, class D got a major boost thanks to Horikita-san. Class morale has shot up and more than anything else, the number of people who idolize Horikita-san has increased. It's a big opportunity."

"I guess." Kiyo says, continuing to just nod. I shrugged it off. "Suppose so. I mean Horikita-san was Kiyo-Kun's first friend so, what is the main reason about us being the bridge between Horikita-san and basically anyone who wants to work with her?"

"Well... I think she should try and get along with everyone right now. If she cooperates with us, I think we could get to class C and then B... No, we can even reach class A." Such confidence and determination. However, one person isn't going to change the class's power in general.

"But even if we can bring you both together, things won't be that easy. Horikita is difficult." I agreed with kiyo on that part. Horikita-san is an aloof, independent personality, her high-handed attitude...

"If we ask her to soften her approach, then she'll turn us down. Besides, she'll just believe that we have come and maybe manipulate her, it might become a disaster. Besides, she hasn't forgotten that I quote on quote 'tricked' her to meet Kushida at that cafe when technically..." I look at Kiyo and he turns away his head away from me.

"O I." Why did he turn his head away? Is this what people call sibling rivalry or something? Or it's like that scene when the younger sibling did something wrong but the parents blame the older one.

Except it's the complete opposite. I was the person who decided to say 'oh Horikita-san, I'm the one who did it. Sorry, we baited you.'

I continue to stare at Kiyo with bug eyes.

Stare...

Stare...

Hirata chuckled at this and I turned around. "I'm sorry about that. Seeing Akiyama-san act like a baby sister just makes me want to laugh a bit." I turn to stare at him. I felt someone lightly punch my head. "Ow." I rub where the area was hit.

"As Miyako was saying... It would distance herself even further. Her response to Kushida's push for friendship when I invited her to the cafe during our first semester was proof of that." Kiyo finishes what I was going to say. At least you admitted that was your plan!

"Yes, I do understand. Horikita-San only opens herself up to only you, Ayanokouji-kun. I don't want to force her confidence so that is why I wanted to tell you my intentions so that you can talk to her. Then, you can pretend I never even spoke to you." Yeah, that's going to be certainly tricky.

There are two consequences to this. One would be Kiyo would be just a whisperer and just delivering Hirata-Kun's opinions which hopefully Horikita-san won't notice. But the second one is that she might realize that he's just giving someone's opinions other than his own. Then who knows what Horikita-san would do?

Honestly, I got to admit, even though I hang around Kiyo-kun most of the time. I have never gotten this close to being considered Horikita-san's friend.

"If I thought she'd listen to me, things would be simple enough but it won't be as easy as you think. I usually go along with whatever Horikita says. I never expressed my opinions nor forced them on her. If I suddenly start voicing strong opinions then she'll find it suspicious, she'll just shut down immediately." Kiyo explains his opinion about this. For someone who wants advice Kiyo, I think you're just laying the odds on trying to win Horikita-san's favor...

... Hirata-kun is interesting indeed. For someone so passionate about trying to cherish friendship and the community around him. But back at the island, he lost his confidence and was doubting himself all of a sudden if he can keep the class together even been acting quite strangely lately. Though he's been having his attention solely on Kiyo...

I wonder why.

Should I ask him about this? No. It would make the matter worst.

Kiyo ordered a light sandwich and a drink while I just didn't order anything. "You going to order something?" Kiyo asks and I look at him. "Suddenly I'm not hungry."

"Huh? But I'm willing to pay for the meal so it's alright for you to get something-" Hirata said as I shook my head. Declining the offer. "It's alright-" I saw Kiyo split the sandwich in half and gesture to take it. "... No," I answered and he continues to try and offer it.

I let out a sigh and just took the half sandwich, looking at it. It is just a light sandwich, no fancy meat or anything. It's a simple sandwich. "But yeah, you may be right. It's like what you said Ayanokouji-kun and Akiyama-san. My plan was short-sighted." Finally, someone who has common sense in this school...

At least he isn't a two-faced bitch or someone who gets bitchy over staring.

"I should reconsider how to do this since Horikita-San seems very fastidious and hypercritical. How do both of you manage to get along with her?" I start to nibble the half part of the sandwich. Looking back at the memory, I only got dragged in by Kiyo over him pretending he is just nervous to go to a cafe that's full of girls.

Unless he intends to try and fool Horikita-san by using the mental image she assigned to him. The boy who's quiet and has bad social skills with people. Her own perception.

"Well, in truth, I don't think I'm on especially good terms with Horikita. Recently, I wondered if we are even considered to be called friends." Kiyo answers Hirata's question on how he gets along with Horikita. Hirata looks at me, waiting for my answer.

"Uh. I only got dragged into the situation. That was all. And ever since then, I have only just been listening to Horikita-san's words. I'm just on the sidelines. That's all." I answered my part of how I got to be "acquainted" with Horikita. Hirata softly chuckles. "With what Ayanokouji-kun said about his terms with Horikita-san. I think she gets along well with Ayanokouji-kun alone. Think of it as a way you're special to her." Hirata says as I continue eating the sandwich.

I'm surprised both of them didn't even bother touching their food yet. Besides Kiyo spitting the sandwich...

People do say when you are eating something, it will surely distract you from the situation just by how good the food is or just a coping mechanism.

"There's no need to be impatient. We only ended the first semester after all." I let out a sigh and continued eating the sandwich, just letting Kiyo do the work of trying to get Hirata-kun to understand. The constant requests of just befriending others are tiresome.

"Horikita isn't the type to make friends easily," Kiyo says once again to convince Hirata that with Horikita, it's quite... Challenging.

Hirata let out a sigh. "That's probably true. I apologize if it seems like I'm rushing into things again." He sounds apologetic about this. Can't blame him though, he's surrounded by forty people and he's popular plus he's gotten a girlfriend.

"I wasn't thinking about her feelings. I was just thinking of myself." He shook himself from suddenly being so down to having that smile again. "I'm sorry again. I invited you both out to eat and I made it all about me. We should eat, shall we?"

"It's alright," I spoke although it was muffled since I had food stuffed in my mouth. "Don't speak while you're eating Miyako." I turn to look at Kiyo and swallowed what I was eating. "It was easy to eat okay? Couldn't help it." I look back at the sandwich that was close to being finished.

Yep, the waiter had our food like minutes ago but I didn't wanna tell them, hey the food is in front of you but oh well. Half sandwich...

The two of them started to eat their food while I was finishing mine up. I look around the area then looked back down and finished up the sandwich. I looked up to see a girl that is leading other girls.

Well Crap. There goes peace and quiet to noisy for who knows how long she might ruin it.

"Ah, so you're here, after all, Hirata-kun. Let's eat lunch together!" Yep, it's the almighty leader of the girls... Karuizawa. She turned to look at me. "Oh, Hey Akiyama-san! Didn't think to see you here with Hirata-kun." Did you just ignore that Kiyo was even here?

"Um... Karuizawa-san, I thought I canceled our plans..." Hirata stumbled over his words, now unsure what to do since now he was being populated by his girlfriend. The girls pulled chairs from the other table and pushed Kiyo away except me. "It's fine! Let's eat our lunches shall we?" Nope.

This lunch turned into a one-second noisy talk...

Chatter and chatter. I'm cornered. Then I heard footsteps approaching and I turn to see Kiyo grabbing my wrist and pulling me out of my chair, dragging me away. He was even holding his food with one hand. The girls didn't bother noticing I got pulled out of their little lunch group.

However, Hirata's eyes met with ours. Then one second, he disappeared. That's a shame...

I was hoping to get more out of him.

[The sparrow - third deck]

After we have finished eating, we have some time to ourselves. "Well, that was a noisy lunch," I spoke up to try and break the silence between us. "I suppose so." As the elevator doors open. We first saw blotches scattered about the hallway floor.

"Yeah, why do I have a bad feeling about this, Kiyo-kun?" I turn to look at Kiyo but he's suddenly gone. I see him walking in front of me, following the trail. I let out a sigh and followed him from behind.

I heard laughter and I can tell just a mile away. A blond man striding through the corridor like it's a fashion walk but wearing nothing except a bathing suit. At least he has some mind to wear something instead of being full-blown naked. "P-Please sir! Please don't walk through the hallway while you're still dripping wet!"

Dear oh dear. This man was following Koenji around and was just overly prepared with a towel on hand. We continued watching them bicker about. Kiyo grabs my wrist. "Come on. I rather avoid being dragged into something bothersome.." I nod in agreement and let Kiyo try to sneak our way past the two of them.

"Oh Ho? Why, if it isn't little Ayanokouji, hmm? Oh, what a coincidence indeed. You have brought your sister with you." Yep, with this man. Clearly preposterous to deal with his selfish personality.

Kiyo turned to look at Koenji. "Do you want something from me?" He asked as the monkey laughed it off. "No, no. I've no real business with you. I've simply acknowledged you because we are schoolmates. Also though, we are certainly not alike in terms of position. We are roommates after all." For once, I feel bad for Kiyo-kun.

"Sometimes you make no sense. With someone who says he's in such a high rank and a famous or rich person. I'm not surprised if you think of us as peasants, monkey Koenji-kun." I spoke as he looks at me. "Doll-face. Did you have some manners or something? Ho... I feel saddened if your parents didn't teach you about it." Ouch. We are the same age. I remain to stay behind Kiyo since I can't technically move away cause Kiyo's grabbing my wrist.

He flipped his hair once again and scattered more water which splashed onto Kiyo's face and uniform. I look at the man who was following koenji. "Well, I shall leave. Excuse myself and please do take care in the future." He delivered that parting shot. I look at Kiyo who is now drenched...

"Kiyo-kun. Let's g-" I tried to drag him away from both of them but Kiyo decided to speak up.

"What were you talking with Koenji about?" He asked and I look at the man's expression to change to a look of anger but when koenji turned around. He suddenly smiled. Oh dear, another one?

"Oh, um... Well, as you can see. He was wet and I tried to offer him a towel and-"

"In other words, you were giving him a warning, we must have interrupted you so we'll be on our way and let you get down to business." I guess in his terms, passing the ball.

We both managed to escape Koenji's hell except Kiyo isn't going to feel peace or his called sanctuary room. Hell, even his dorm room is now a noisy place. Guess I should offer him something.

"Kiyo-kun, do you want to head into my room instead?" I ask and he stopped, turning to look at me. "Suppose so, but why?"

"Unlike your rooms, which on the ship and at school. They are quite noisy and I feel bad for you having to be alone with a guy like Koenji." He shrugged and let go of my wrist. I rubbed on it and walks towards my room. "You're kinda drenched though. Do you want a towel or something?" I open the door and Kiyo again shrugs.

"You know that water has touched Koenji-kun, right? It might be disgusting." I walk into my room and Kiyo follows me inside, closing it from behind. "It doesn't bother me. It's just water..." I went to the bathroom and grabbed a white towel, throwing it to Kiyo as he catches it. I sat down on the bed and just face plant against the pillow.

"Exhaustion tolls on me when it comes to people. Sometimes reading their motives is tiresome.." Mumbling to myself since my face is being smashed by a pillow.

He explored my room quite a bit while rubbing the towel onto his hair, drying it. "Chess huh? A few pieces are missing but I notice some of the pawns are down and the king and queen are present. The enemy seems to have an advantage." I turn my head to look at kiyo.

"... I guess." I let out a sigh and sat up. "I'm wondering since now things are not turning out in a good way. I like to know, what're your motives, Kiyotaka? At some point during our school year. We might be playing each other at this point to try and win the game in your favor or mine."

Kiyo remains silent. "Onii Chan?" Yep, can't believe I'm gonna have to say it when we're in private. I mean Kiyo is my older brother even though we are twins. And typically in Japanese traditions, it's a way to respect one another.

"Who knows. My methods of playing are perhaps different from yours. But who knows you might break my expectations. Overall, it's a bit... complicated." Kiyo answered and I let out a sigh.

Can't blame him if he doesn't trust me yet. In fact, he might think of me as a rival or someone who might ruin his plans. The entire board game of life is like chess. If you're too forward and aggressive, you're susceptible to traps and counters. Being too timid is also bad since you're left wide open to being surrounded and destroyed from the outside.

"That's alright if you don't have to tell me. Though, I'm intrigued by a certain person.." Kiyo looks at me. "Who?"

"... I shouldn't spoil my plans~" I started humming a bit which left Kiyo to be having a blank expression. "If you say so." We continue to remain silent as I lay back down.

A certain man trying to contact us from the outside and is telling the school to expel us.

...

How troublesome.

A white bird that soars through the skies might just be soaked in red if an arrow has shot its wings.

It won't falter, it'll continue to fly even with an injured wing. I'll do anything to protect my precious pieces. Before the queen dies and takes the entire game with her...

It is a useful piece after all...

There was an announcement, echoing through the hallways. The entire cruise ship. "Hm?" It caught both of our attention.

The voice that's echoing through the halls tells the students to check our emails.

We both look at each other.

Another special test.

—————
Chapter Eighteen - Season two: episode one [part one] A temporary vacation once again

T o b e c o n t i n u e d

Author: Ahaha, welcome to season two! Sorry for the long wait. As you have noticed this chapter, it's following the LN for the first half. I have also changed a bit in the end since originally Kiyo didn't want to go to his room and wanted to go spend time with other room mates .

I kinda want to have Miyako and Kiyo sibling moment s sooo yeah, that was my intention .

The next chapter will follow the anime. I'm sorry if it's confusing anyone. I'll just mix the anime and LN together.

Hopefully , I didn't confuse you all, I apologize if I did.

Now then, see you in the next chapter~

July 16, 2022
Words : 5900

Chapter Nineteen: The special test

[Beware there are OOC moments. Just in case I ruin a character's behavior.]

In this scenario, you must remain calm and have a clear mind during stressful times. Otherwise, everyone around you will notice this and take advantage of that little piece that isn't so clear. It will be a mess just like that piece.

[The sparrow - third deck]
Miyako's POV

Another special test once again, I look at the email they sent me. "Regarding the special test, all students. Please come to the indicated room at the indicated time, those who are more than ten minutes late may receive a penalty. Come to room 504 by 6:00 PM today." I read the message out loud and face my phone to Kiyo. He shows his email as well and I look at it. "Same room and time..." I put my phone away back onto my skirt pocket.

Kiyo looks out the window, just seeming to be in his thoughts once again. He let out a sigh and looked at his phone.

"Hm, what's up Kiyo-kun?" I tried to glance at what he was looking at but he turned off his phone the second I was trying to look at his screen. "Nothing much. We should head over there right now. I wouldn't want to be receiving a penalty." Kiyo stood up from his chair and walked to the door, leaving the room as he closes the door behind.

Leaving me alone with my thoughts. " Chabashira-sensei told me a certain man has been forcibly trying to establish contact with us.." I recalled what Kiyo was telling me about. I sat up from my bed, stepping away from it. I noticed my ankle that is still bandaged tightly due to the sprain from the last test.

It won't hinder much. However, I suppose I should listen to Kiyo's words. "There was a lack of social release of pain, which caused more cases of depression and breaking points. Considering you have more emotions than me, it's obvious that you are more hurt trying to keep the talk away from our conversation about maintaining the vague bond that we are yet to define."

Social release of pain huh? More emotions than him? I wonder why he would even care for someone like myself. I look at the chess board. "Oh... Kiyo played one piece... The rook huh.." I look at it to see the enemy has cornered a piece.

The rook besides the queen that it also has some sort of importance to them. "Guess Kiyo will either be the king who will behind his pawns or... turn this game to a checkmate." I move one piece of the board.

"The human minds and their motives. Whether it'll be bad or good. Yet hard to comprehend... Such as an emotion." I look at the piece I moved. It won't do anything for me to win. I look at my phone to see the time. "I should get going..." I walk out of my room, closing the door as I head to the indicated room they sent by email.

[The sparrow - Room 504]

The time was nearly 5:50 pm. I look at the doorbell to see the number plate showing that I am in the right room and I rang the doorbell. "Enter." I heard a man's voice from the other side and I open the door, going inside to see the room was dimly lit. I walk towards the light to see the teacher and three boys.

"Yukimura-kun, Sotomura-kun... And the professor from class A?" I look at both of them then I turn to see Kiyo is there, sitting on the left and just looking at me. I look at the chair that was there at the end of the table and pulled a seat as I sat down.

"It is revealed once again, that one of those two seats was that of Akiyama~" He adjusted his glasses as I look at them. "One more person is due to arrive. Please wait quietly until they do." The professor had his arms folded. The four of us sat there in silence. I notice Kiyo looked up at the time and I heard the door open.

"Excuse me." Once I heard that voice, I knew that this meeting will turn into a noisy argument. "What the heck? What are you guys doing here?" Yep. The person who is our fourth and final person. We all turn to look at who's in the hall to see the leader of the girls in class D. Karuizawa.

Knowing that Mishima-sensei has a reputation for being cold to his students. Being one minute late is no exception.

"I believe you were told that punctuality is key. You're late. Please take a seat." Mashima-sensei said and Karuizawa walks past me, we both glanced at each other. "Okayyy." Yep, she isn't too thrilled and she pulled a seat up next to Kiyo but she lifted the chair and moved it a bit further away from Kiyo then sat down.

I wonder what Kiyo did that ended up having Karuizawa hate him so much. "Sotomura, Yukimura, Ayanokouji, Akiyama, and Karuizawa from class D. Without further ado, I will now explain the special test." Hopefully, we won't have any interruptions. Honestly, I was confused at first about why they selected this group of five.

Perhaps the other people in class D have different time slots?

"W-Wait a minute. I don't understand. What do you mean to explain the test? The test was already over right? Also, what's the deal with these guys? I'm alright with Akiyama-san but couldn't you put me with more girls or even Hirata-kun?!" And there we go. Karuizawa didn't wanna listen so she just has to be bombarded with questions.

"Karuizawa-san... You should try to listen to the professor here." I whispered as she looks at me. "But I just want to"

"I will not answer any questions at this time. Be quiet and listen." Mashima-sensei looks coldly at Karuizawa and she sighs as she remains to be silent.

Mashima-sensei has begun to explain this test without any interruptions. Hopefully. "In this special test, all the first-year students will be divided into eight groups based on the planets. Everyone will participate within their respective group. The purpose of this examination is to test your way of thinking." He explains as I glance at the others, besides Kiyo. They just seem slightly confused. Then I went back to focus my attention on Mashima-sensei.

But this test involves thinking. Probably it's to test how fast we'll be able to process information and how to think about the situation. A human's mind works differently for everyone. Some are fast and able to understand easily. While the other is slow and doesn't understand until they have assistance from others...

"Wait, what do you mean 'test our thinking?" Oh, come on Karuizawa... You weren't able to stay silent for like five minutes?

"I have already told you. I will not be answering any questions." I look at Karuizawa as she just seems not to be happy at all. I glance at the others and they remain silent unlike her...

The professor continues his explanation. "Society needs three fundamental qualities to progress: action, thinking, and teamwork. These three critical qualities are the ways to become successful wonderful adults." Suppose that is true. Humanity has those three qualities to try and be successful in life. Money and a home and family or just by their greeds.

Except each person will have some sort of trouble with one of those qualities. Teamwork could be a problem with someone who's socially anxious or just have a bad attitude or just want to work alone.

"The previous exam you all took focused heavily on teamwork. As a result, you have passed with flying colors due to this." Yeah about that.

I think it was only one or two people. With a few pawns or so. All went well...

"Now, with those four essential qualities. You will be able to pass this test once again without a problem. Ability to process information, analyze, solve and create new values. Are there any questions?" Well, even if the professor has explained this in a very detailed manner and hopefully easier to understand.

None of us got it. At all. There are questionable faces and just confusion. But, the last words "are there any questions" yeah, I know one person gonna throw a mouthful of them.

"Yeah, I have one. Why am I placed with these guys once again? I get it that we are divided into eight groups but why do I have to be placed with them? Akiyama-san is alright but can't you place me or both of us with the girls?" Karuizawa asked and she received the answer.

"At this very moment, there are other groups like this one having the same explanation right now," Mishima-sensei says but clearly Karuizawa gonna ask more than one question.

"If that were true, then how come you can't gather us in the same room? Putting me with these three boys gross me out! Akiyama-san is weird to hang out with one of them! Can't I just be put somewhere else?" Oh, that hurt. I glance over at the other side of the table to see Yukimura isn't just having it.

"Can you shut up and listen? Your attitude is probably gonna ruin our points since you keep blabbering so much and begging to be with Hirata-kun or be with the other girls. You aren't the only one, You have another girl and she isn't having a temper tantrum unlike you. You caused trouble on the deserted island which made our group fall apart. Can you at least try and not cause more problems?" Karuizawa looks at him with disgust. "Really? What did I do to cause such problems?"

Hmm, let me think. Since you were popular with the girls in class D. You made them go one-sided thinking it was the boys without any evidence. Your anger was misplaced just because boys can be perverts or something and you kinda got angry over underwear which caused the class's boys' and girls'' trust issues worst.

I look back at the professor and he remains silent, I look at Kiyo and he also remains silent. Welcome back to the next episode of arguing between boys and girls. "Calm down both of you, the test hasn't even started. Yukimura, your concerns are groundless. It won't affect much, besides your attitude wont be affected either."

"See? now you get it?" Karuizawa remains just confident about this, smuggling as Yukimura's face is full of frustration. Should I speak up since Karuizawa is going to listen to me instead?

"Karuizawa, if you don't change your attitude towards the teachers, it may leave a permanent mark on your record. You don't want that, do you?" Kiyo asks and Karuizawa looks at him. "Hmph.." Okay, she ain't going listen.

"Karuizawa-san. Kiyo-kun is right. I won't argue much about your point of view but I think that you need to work with them... It is just one test. Who knows you might have to team up with them in the future so think about it." I spoke up as Karuizawa looks at me.

"Fine..." Figures. I tried to speak with reason even if she didn't like me at all just because I hang out with Kiyo. Does that consider me weird to just hang out with a boy that is just completely out of the group? Or is it because I'm a girl and she just listens to me?

I look at the professor to see that he is just having a headache, rubbing his temple from watching the argument. "Listen, your group assignments are done. There won't be any further changes to the group. To win this test, you all need to get along." He said as Karuizawa folded her arms.

"Jeez! This sucks! Why do I have to work with them? Hirata-kun would've been so much better." I'm just feeling my mask is just gonna snap.

Is she going to continue acting like a damned child?

"Three heads are better than one. You can even try to surpass Hirata-dono or even impress him for your success. My dear lady." Guess the professor have to play along with her being the royal princess with the utmost respect.

"Gross. Even if there are a hundred or two hundred of you. You still won't even be worthy to be a strand of Hirata-Kun's hair." First of all, gross way to describe the comeback. Second, please stop before I snap.

I'll probably need to fix myself later. Letting this side of me out will be a downfall.

"May I continue with the explanation?" The silence between all of us, the sensei resumed explaining the special test. How long was the argument? I wonder since I didn't even check the time.

As Mashima-sensei's explanation of the special test continues. The summary of this is that there will be four outcomes to this.

Outcome one: Everyone besides the VIP's classmates gets the correct answer. Everyone in that group will get 500,000 PT. The VIP gets additional points.

Outcome two: If at least one person besides the VIP and VIP classmates fails to answer or guess wrong. The VIP will only get 500,000 points. That would be such a greedy approach for a person who is so desperate for points or something else.

Outcome three: Someone other than the VIP emails the school before the testing period is concluded. That student's class will receive fifty class points and that 500,000 PT. If that student is correct, then the test is finished.

And here comes the last outcome, four. The same outcome as three but if it's a wrong answer before the test period ends, the student's class receives a penalty of taking away 50 class points and the VIP gets 500,00 points while their class gets 50 points instead.

Now, it is not just class D doing this, we are going to have to team up with the other classes. Class A and Class B will have three students and four students from our class and class C, we won't be acting as Class D but as our group Mars.

There are four days on this test, day three is break and at 8:00 Am, the students will receive mail. One will receive them as being VIP.

It's like a game of finding out who's the imposter from that certain game I saw other students in our class play. The objective is to identify the VIP .

We all were finished with the explanation of this special test once again. Everyone has left the room and headed towards the elevator. Kiyo and I stepped in and just stood there, the silence between us as the elevator ascended.

My thoughts continue to wander however, this is going to be quite troublesome. With Hirata-Kun's motivation to try and get class D together.

I don't see this test will help us reach class A. Especially of what just happened. The elevator doors open and the students left, Kiyo is leaning against the wall and just in his thoughts. I left him alone and decided to think about this.

This game will be indeed troublesome. With all possibilities. There is a way that a traitor will be in the game. The goal of this is our thinking, ability to process the situation, and ability to go through a problem.

The human mind has ways to expose the VIP, speculating others and how they act, processing and trying to influence them. Weaken their guard and find out the VIP, and either go through case three or two of the outcome.

How annoying.

With this test, it is going to be hard to try and win this game. Looks like I need to sacrifice a piece for... A newer one.

Class D will never reach or beat class A. Now with Class D being the center of attention from the last test. All classes will be wary of us.

[The next day - beginning of the test]

I was sitting in a restaurant that isn't so crowded and looked at my phone. The time was going to strike.

I took a bite of the fluffy pancake I am having for breakfast. The time ticked and I checked the email. I wasn't the VIP. I let out a sigh and stood up, I left the dish on the table to let the waiters clean it up. It is their job...

I walk to the observation area, the breeze flows through my hair as I look at the skies. "Oh! Akiyama-san! I didn't know you would be here!" That voice...

I turn to look who it is, it is Kushida. "Good morning Kushida-san." I greeted her and she smiled. "Good morning to you too!" She walks closer to me. Why do I feel like this isn't normal.. good morning?

I am alone with her. It's early in the morning and students are in different places...

"May I ask what are you doing here?" Kushida ask and I shrugged. "Just taking in the breeze... It helps relieve stress." I answered as Kushida leans closer to me but I slowly move an inch away from her.

Moment of silence between us, I leaned away from the bar and was about to walk away but I felt someone grab my wrist. "Hey... Akiyama-san. Since we are alone here, nobody is around. I have something to ask you." I turn to look at Kushida as she lets go.

"Were you there?" I tilt my head in confusion then I felt the sudden atmosphere change. "I don't know what you are talk-"

"Don't lie to me. I know you saw my "other" self that day. You spend time with Ayanokouji-kun a lot and been around him more often..." Oh, looks like I've been busted...

"Oh, I guess. Would you believe me if I say I didn't?" I ask and her mask dropped. That true look.

"Tell anyone about this and I'll tell the school that you have assaulted me and harassed me for points." Oh, quite different. By assaulting, you can just make a simple "fake" fall and accused me of harming you.

And that would cause the school to think I did something incriminating. That would be bad.

I shrugged as I pull out my phone. "I wonder if the school can go through that with that accusation..." I tap the play audio.

"Did you hear?" Kushida's voice played in the audio clip. Her face widen when she heard that.

"If I said I didn't, would you believe me?" Kiyo's voice played in the recording. "If you tell anyone about this, you'll pay."

"May I ask how?" Kiyo asks.

" I'll tell everyone you tried to rape me."

The audio came up, crystal clear as Kushida grit her teeth. "That would be a false accusation." Kiyo answers. "Oh no. It's not a false accusation."

"See? Your fingerprints are right here. I'm serious."

I paused the audio. "Give me that phone, right now." She runs towards me and her hand reaches for my phone, attempting to steal it as I walk to the right as she missed, she turns around and her face is in pure anger.

She tries to take my phone once again but I raise it a bit higher and I grab her wrist, slamming her against the railing. She winced from the pain. "The fall won't hurt you. Nor I do not intend on dropping you off the observation area." I answered and she tries to fight back, struggling but my grip remands her to be stronger than hers.

"Kushida-san... I won't expose you to this audio recording. However, consider this as a warning if you try to threaten me with such a pitiful accusation." I said as Kushida's eyes remain to look at me.

"You hate Horikita-san, don't you? May I ask why?" Kushida's eyes glare at me. Looks like that's a yes.

It seems like she is going to be wary of making a dumb move on me. The bishop can't remain to be holy forever. There is bound to be darkness in them.

"Well, that is all. I wish you the best of luck with this game..." I walk away as I put my phone in my pocket.

Kushida gritted her teeth. "Wait. Why don't you even use it for blackmail months back? Why keep it in your damn phone?" I let out a sigh. I turn my head, my eyes darkened and Kushida froze in place.

"It is a good way to hold you in place. Bound to the board, waiting to be hit by the enemy... I won't do anything. I'll keep your secret and won't tell anyone." I walk away, leaving her alone.

Honestly, I wouldn't do much since now she is aware I have her in the palm of my hand. She'll be a negotiable piece to manipulate.

If she goes and tries to attack me, I won't mind...

It's all part of the process after all. After being threatened, I'm not surprised her priorities when she's finished with Horikita will be me since I have evidence that involves kiyo.

Since she did hate Horikita being popular and all. She may even hate Kiyo just because he knows.

[discussion room]

Well, here we are. The room was full of a tense atmosphere, class A with three boys, class C with four girls. One of them isn't in a happy mood though. Then class B with two boys and one girl. Ichinose. Honestly, I don't know how's she smiling...

And here's us class D... Except there's five. Yeah, isn't that great?

Karuizawa looks around and lets out a sigh. "This has to be the worst team ever." Please don't let out more of the attitude...

Yep, more silent. A good way to introduce yourself Karuizawa.

I heard a clap and I turned toward the sound. "Attention everyone. Why don't we start with introductions? The school has told us that after all to start the discussion. Shall we go ahead and introduce ourselves?" Ichinose takes the first place to be the leader of the group, not surprising.

"Is that something we need to bother with? Let's leave it to anyone who wants to do it." One of the class A's students says. Ichinose turns to him, "Yeah, I guess I can't force you, can I? But the room may be bugged!" Hmm, that's a good attempt... Trying to make class A be a part of this group.

"Well..." Looks like Ichinose's words left him speechless. It's a good hit. "If that is the case, the people who won't introduce themselves might be penalized."

"Fine. I'll do it." As expected, Ichinose's role in this group will help. Most of the time anyway since there would be some negativity...

After the introduction, it was time to discuss what to do with the special test. Ichinose took the role as a moderator and nobody didn't complain about it nor wanted to be the moderator.

Ichinose has decided for us to take outcome one, for all of us to receive points while the VIP gets the additional. Everyone was liking the sound of it. Kiyo is over here agreeing he just wants more points while I remain silent since I just nod my head that I agreed to it.

However, class A announces that they will be abstaining from discussions. Probably instructions from Katsuragi since it would sound like his words.

In the last test, he did say class A is "One class occupies one spot and they protect it until the end." So that would just give me the assumption that he would be the person giving orders to his class to abstain...

Of course, class B started trying to reason with class A. They seem to have thought about what class A would even say. It's like they were expecting to say something like this.

Fairness is the word of their reasoning. Believing it's a rule for the school that scrumptiously adheres. Ichinose tries to continue her argument by stating that they're betting the fact that the first-year students will suspect or betray anyone.

Class A believes to be having full trust among their classes. Overall, Ichinose mostly has good counter-back argumentative.

Machida leaves the table and just goes and sits down on the chair a bit far from it. Class A philosophy won't change according to him. Looks like they will be abstaining or not participating with us.

It was the end of the discussion as I walk out, and saw Kiyo standing there. "Oh Hey kiyo-kun." I notice he was looking at something or someone. I turn to see where he was looking.

The three girls from class D talking to Karuizawa. "Hm, what's going on there?..." I whisper and Kiyo glances at me and then looks back at them. "Apparently Karuizawa had a reputation as a troublemaker outside of our class as well," Kiyo answers back. Yeah, seems to be that way.

Knowing her behavior at our discussion table and earlier in the meeting. She would cause trouble later.

Actions do have consequences...

After Karuizawa slapped manade's phone out of her hand, probably was going to take a picture of her. That did not go so well, if only she can just apologize then she wouldn't have to go through that.

Of course, there was laughter and Karuizawa seems to be defenseless. "Hey, what was all that noise?" Machida and the two other boys from class A approach them.

"S-Stay out of this machida-kun. This has nothing to do with you." She says as Machida remains to be Karuizawa's knight and shining armor.

"From what I just heard, I think you're the wrong one here, manabe. Karuizawa told you that she doesn't know what you are talking about and you are forcefully trying to take her picture." The three girls of class C backed down from that. They know that taking a picture without permission is considered rude.

Can't blame them though, pictures do help a lot to show the truth sometimes.

After they left, Karuizawa thanked Machida and well, I have no opinion of what just happened. With that attitude, I'm not surprised Karuizawa is too... confident with her status that she's like the queen of the castle since Hirata is popular, it made her also popular too...

"Perhaps this was the beginning of a new love?" I look at Kiyo as I try to joke about the situation. "I doubt that would be the case. Karuizawa already had Hirata though, regardless I got the feeling that the friction between Karuizawa and those class C students would spark some real problems down the road." Kiyo answers and I let out a sigh, folding my arms.

" It would be good to take that advantage if you want to get to know her. Right?" I ask and Kiyo remains silent by this question.

"Well, I'll see you by the next discussion." I wave off bye-bye and went out to investigate some things.

Perhaps this is a good time to use this plan and to take advantage of it. I'll need a new piece after all...

—————
Chapter Nineteen - Season two: episode one [part two] The special test

T o b e c o n t i n u e d

Well, a lot happened. I apologize for the delay! Been suffering writer's block so I've been kinda stumped. Overall; I hope you enjoy the chapter. I try to make Miyako be having her moments and things that did not happen in the original plot.

Although Kushida ain't going to like that. At all. But anyway~ I'll see you guys in the next chapter. If I'm motivated enough.

Got any ideas on what Kushida would do to Miyako since she knows that Miyako has the recording? You can say it in the comments if you want to! The next chapter and the 'scene' will be slightly different. So be aware of that!

I also have shorten the discussion conversation cause I was just not motivated to not do it. Watch the anime or read the LN.

And I have to add that Karuizawa's little behavior cause chaos in the meeting room since it did happen in the LN.

Anyway! See you in the next chapter~

August 11, 2022
Words: 4786

Chapter Twenty: Image of the person

[Beware there are OOC moments. Just in case I ruin a character's behavior. Also. I'm back.]

There is a coin that shows heads or tails. One is the side of good and the other is bad. But truthfully. They are like the same side of the same coin. Just opposite towards each other.

[The sparrow - special test day 1]
Miyako's POV

After the discussion table, I received a message. I noticed it instantly of this pattern.

Horikita Suzune
Akiyama Miyako
[blank]
"Come meet me at the usual spot. We need to discuss."

I typed out the response.

Akiyama Miyako
Horikita Suzune
[Question: why?]
"May I ask why? We have just gotten out of the discussion meeting."

Before I was able to send it. I got a message.

Horikita Suzune
Akiyama Miyako
[We need to talk about the special test.]
"The message is blank."

—————-

I let out a sigh as I head to the destination of the quote on quote usual spot. I walk up to the meeting area as I see Horikita reading a book and sitting on a chair at one of those cafe tables.

I look around to see Kiyo is not around. So she must've wanted to meet with just me. How strange. "Horikita-San, I got your message. What is it?" Horikita closes her book and looks at me.

"How was your group?" Horikita ask as I shrugged. "Other than Kiyo-Kun and the other two boys. We had quite a noisy meeting on Mars because of Karuizawa-san." I answered as Horikita lets out a sigh.

"Oh her. I suppose she will make downfall of your group if she's around since the island exam." She says as I pull up a chair and sat down. "Well, our group has quite a tension towards each other. Not sure I can do anything to change the course of action."

"Akiyama-san, what do you think about the special test?" She continues to question me about the test as I rest my chin on my hand. "This test is about our thinking and how we observe things. Like observing someone's character..." Especially Karuizawa sure does seem a bit interesting, especially since that last incident with the three girls in class C.

"How about you?" I look at Horikita as she seems quite annoyed. "My group is going to be quite bothersome. I have Kushida-san and Hirata-kun. Class C is Ryuen..." oh him, I feel bad for her now.

"He's been so interested in me and just trying to get some sort of information. It's annoying. He even took a picture of me without permission." Horikita says and I let out a sigh. "Well, you're going have to deal with it. Knowing Ryuen, he'll get anything to find out why he lost. And you seem to be his target." I let out some "comforting" words.

"Yeah, thanks to you and Ayanokouji-kun that put a target behind my back." She glared at me as I look away. "My apologies, I was only following his plan behind the shadows. Besides me starting the arson early since it was going to rain.." I said and Horikita stares at me.

"Hm, what's the matter?.."

"Nothing." Horikita was about to return to reading her book until both of us received a message. I pull up my phone from my pocket and look at the message. "The Saturn's group test has concluded. The Saturn group is no longer required to participate in the test." I read out the message and I look at Horikita.

She is visibly surprised yet.. more annoyed than ever. "Knowing a certain somebody in class D who did leave the island exam due to "sickness" it must've been that monkey, Koenji-kun..." Yep, I added more fuel to the fire.

"I am going to tear him." I tilt my head to see Horikita typing into her phone. "Who?"

"Damn Ayanokouji-kun... Why didn't you bother stopping koenji-kun from being crazy?" Oh, kiyo. But he can't do anything, it is the monkey boy we are talking about here.

"We are going to move destinations. We will meet close to the bar, one floor above the pool." Horikita says as I just nod. "Oh, alright then." Yep, she arranged another meeting but this time, with kiyo...

[Next meeting spot - the bar]

"Oh, Miyako. You are here as well?" Kiyo asks as I nod. "She dragged me out here out of my solitude..." I felt a pinch on my arm and I turn to look at Horikita. She still isn't happy and I added more fuel.

We three sat at the table that has a perfect view beneath the pool and the metal fences, looking at the midnight skies. Kiyo explained what happened and he couldn't do anything about it. "The next time I see him, I'll tear him myself," Horikita says and looks away from him, still having that angry look on her face.

"That would be pointless. You should ignore outside directions and focus on your group." Kiyo says as he looks at the pool. Horikita rubs her nose bridge. "I'm not going to lose this."

"I'll leave it to you," Kiyo answers as I let out a sigh. "I'll agree with kiyo-kun, I'll leave everything to you. Don't blame me or him if things go south on your group." I said as Horikita glares at me.

"I'm not going to rely on you both all the time. It is your fault that I have Ryuen behind my back." My bad Horikita, there is no need to remind me again. "I want information on Karuizawa." We both look at Kiyo. I can understand why he wants information out of her.

"Huh? Where did that come from?" Horikita questions since it would seem a bit abnormal for Kiyo to ask her about people. However, I just see this question as a bit pointless, Kiyo.

Because Horikita lacks social skills so she doesn't know anyone to have good info on her besides their public image such as being popular among the girls in class D...

"I can figure things out with Yukimura and the professor, but with Karuizawa. I don't know where to start with her." Kiyo answered and I sigh.

"Karuizawa's actions are quite troublesome, Kiyo-kun. However, she remains to be quite quiet during the meeting." I added as Horikita seems to suspect something. "That's true. But, are you asking me this because you think she might be the VIP?" Horikita asks and Kiyo nods.

"That's part of it. Something about how she's acting doesn't seem natural." Well, the scene with her and the three girls in class C shows that.

Her public image of her being popular among the girls of class D made her quite.. overconfident and her troubled behavior shows that among class C. But when she was denying the allegations of her bumping into their friend, suddenly she turned to be defenseless.

"It's pointless. The things she does for her actions are unreasonable. You should probably not waste time thinking about her." Ouch. But that was expected from Horikita. However, thinking about this is quite risky but curiosity kills the cat after all but the cat doesn't die. It will still be alive until they get all their answers.

At least that's what the idiom even means anyway. It fits well with this scenario...

"Horikita-san. People tend to have a self-image of themselves when they are in public." I spoke up as she looks at me. "What?"

"You know, famous people would try to smile and all but deep down when they are not in the crowd, they would show their other self. It would be bad or good." I continue to explain my point of view about public images, trying to get Horikita to understand.

"Like for you. Remember in the alleyway?" Whoops, I shouldn't have brought it up. "Don't even. You're lucky I don't have my compass pen." I let out a sigh and turn my face away from her. I'm glad she doesn't so I wouldn't have to be stabbed.

I look at Kiyo, trying to signal some help here. "Horikita. People first learn about others based on their appearance. "Impressive," "attractive," or neither of those things. It's what we think of as a first impression. They infer personality based on behavior. "Gregarious," "belligerent", "passive." But as with appearance, this is all merely superficial." I glance at Horikita to see she seems to be understanding.

"For example, the class thinks Kiyo-kun is invisible and doesn't have a voice even if he's attending class because he doesn't even bother trying to social-" I felt I got punched to the side. "Ow- that hurt..." I mumbled as I look at Kiyo. It doesn't look like he didn't want Horikita to react while Horikita's focus was on him.

Even though that didn't hurt much...

"And you both believe Karuizawa-San is the same way?" Horikita questions as I nod. "Honestly, two times she caused an event. The class D trust problem during the island and the meeting." Horikita looks down, probably thinking about her impression of her brother in the alleyway.

"Karuizawa's first impression was that of someone self-centered and uncooperative. Yet she has a uniquely powerful sense of presence, relative to class D," Kiyo explains furthermore about Karuizawa. "Popular around girls, the beautiful type. Has earned popularity within months..." I mumbled to myself as I look away from both of them.

"True. She may hold the key to taking initiative." Horikita answers however Kiyo seems to decline that theory. "Yet she's shown sign of wanting to do that during this test nod of her usual overbearing attitude." I turn to look back at Kiyo.

"More like it's not doing her a favor. She's not getting what she desires..." I spoke out my theory about it. "She may not be participating because of the situation and having a bad group placement."

Kiyo nods as he turns to look at me. "I suppose so. But it is a theory so you might be wrong on that move." Kiyo answers. "I think I see what you're both getting at. So, what do you plan to do Ayanokouji-kun? You just going to bring Karuizawa-san into the fold?" Horikita questions him and Kiyo shrugs. "I don't know just yet." He answers and Horikita looks at me. "What about you Akiyama-san?"

"... I'm staying aside. I have something to investigate." Horikita blinks at my response. "What plan are you doi-"

"Hey, Suzune." We three turned to look at the infamous dragon boy. Ryuen...

"Out for a date? Here, of all places? I guess that last girl is a three-wheeler?" Gross. Please don't include me in this. "Why not let me join in?" Please no.

Ryuen grabs a layer of Horikita's hair. "Come up with a way to sniff out the VIP yet?" He asks and expected of Horikita, and she slaps his hand away from her. "I'd never tell you either way."

"I was hoping to ask your opinion. But it sounds like you haven't narrowed down the suspects at all."

"What interesting phrasing."

"I'm on the track to identify the VIP." Would you believe me if I said that?" Ryuen says with full confidence. I doubt it though. Everything Ryuen does relies on strength alone, that strength shows who rules the game in their class...

"You've got enemies on all sides. I would doubt your ability to acquire reliable information." Oh Horikita, if only you knew based on the lesson Kiyo just gave you. Ryuen's first impression of him is a delinquent, yet he's willing to do anything to win... Even beat up a few people or...

"One's standing is unrelated to one's ability to acquire information." Ryuen walks away from us and approaches the empty bar, we three turn to follow our eyes to him. "I'm going to grab this test by the root. Class C may even seize itself a sweeping victory."

"How ridiculous," Horikita says, refusing o believe everything ryuen says.

However, he actually might. We can't do anything outside our group. So, the game's all on Horikita.

He continues to explain his ways of winning especially breaking the rule to the test that he forced everyone in class C to hand over their cell phones. Now that he just needs to check the emails to see if they are VIPs.

Nobody is gonna tell the teachers without proof after all.

After ryuen sparking water flex, he walks towards Horikita and leans closer to her ear. Whispering to something but unfortunately, I couldn't hear it. Darn, if only I could switch places with Kiyo...

"A ridiculous deal. You're wasting your breath on proposing a deal like that." Horikita said, refusing the deal to make with ryuen. "I thought it was a rather good offer myself." He walks away, waving Horikita off.

Well, that was a blow over...

We three took our seats, staring at each other. "How long you are going to be there? I'd prefer that we not be mistaken for a couple."

"But you called us here-" we both sync with each other as Horikita remains to look at her book.

"Our discussion is finished." I blink and stood up. "I shall be heading off. See you." I wave bye to Kiyo and Horikita as I walk away.

Leaving time alone by myself. I went to the area that has a lack of students and I let out a sigh. Looked at the night skies as I let myself wander my mind by the sound of waves. "Now then..." I pull up my phone as I was sending an email to somebody.

——-

From [ ]
To Manabe Shiho
[Subject: Deal]

"Let's talk about proposing a deal. Sound fair to you?"

She sent the email to them and just seconds. She has a response.

From Manabe Shiho
to: blank

"Who are you?"

I continue to stare at her response and I typed out the email.

"Let's propose a deal about Karuizawa Kei. I have heard you have some questions about her. How about I let you have your stage? You get to do whatever you want. You can even continue questioning her if you want to."

[from Manabe Shiho
[To Blank]

"How do you even know this?"

So many questions. I could just stand here all night and continue answering. But I guess a simple answer will do for now.

From [ ]
To Manabe Shiho
[Subject: blank]

"I have my ways. Do you accept the deal or not?"

[From Manabe Shiho]
[To Blank]

"Fine. What's your deal?"

———

I blink at my phone for a few seconds and then a response has been sent. Now, the stage has been set. "... I suppose they can have fun slapping her if they wanted to now nobody would be around to stop them," I mumbled to myself.

I started walking back to my room, trying to have some rest after investigating and meeting a dragon boy. I feel mentally drained after all this little drama that has happened. Karuizawa is arrogant and bragging about Hirata then suddenly she turns into a selfless girl begging for somebody. If it is she is like...

... A parasite. No parasite in the world could handle being independent by themselves. They need a host.

[The sparrow - hallway to the students ' rooms]

I was walking down the halls when I notice Kiyo was leaning against the wall like he was hiding. "Hm? What's up Kiy-" he immediately put his finger on his lips to shush. I didn't speak as I was hearing conflict.

"It's not like you to want to solve problems with violence." That voice...

I lean over against the wall, trying to peak over what is happening but that bush is blocking my view. If only Kiyo isn't so tall but I manage to get a glimpse of who it is.

Hirata and his girlfriend, Karuizawa. "Your girlfriend's in trouble here! You should want to help her, shouldn't you?! They're just not letting up... I don't know what they might try next." Karuizawa is trying to convince Hirata of something. Probably about Manabe and her friends...

I try to look over but I feel like I would get spotted if I'm away from hiding. "Kiyo-Kun, what is Hirata-Kun's face expression?.." I whispered and Kiyo remands to have his attention focused on the couple.

"His facial expression seems to remain smiling. Karuizawa here is stressed out and shouting for him to protect her." Kiyo answers my question.

"Let's think it over together. We just need a way to patch things up together." Hirata said he seems to try to remain calm as possible. It looks like he seems to want of taking the pacifist side instead of the aggressive side. "It's not possible. They just hate me for no reason!" That's a lie. Every human has some sort of grudge. They hate you because you bump into somebody with your behavior...

"You picked the fight with Rika-san in class C first, right?" Hirata ask and the tone of Karuizawa's voice suddenly changed. "No, I... I just bumped into her. You'll protect me, won't you Hirata-kun?"

"I will. I'm going to help you because you're one of my precious classmates. But I can't hurt anyone to do that." So knowing Kiyo's information protection. I guess Karuizawa assumed protection is violence with violence.

"You're a liar. Liar! You said you'd protect me!" Yep, she didn't take that response lightly.

"Liar?" I look at Kiyo and he seems to be a bit surprised. "What is it?.." Before Kiyo could answer, Hirata said an unexpected response...

"I think I've been consistent this whole time. We're not really boyfriend and girlfriend ." Oh. That is surprising. They both seem to be dating and rumors spurred out that they were.

"I don't mind pretending like we're dating, but I can't take your side exclusively. I told you that at the start, didn't I?"

"How can you say that?... Why are you saying that now?" Even to this moment, Karuizawa seems to be quite a in denial.

"Because I think it's time for you to make a new decision."

"You mean... You don't care what they do to me?" Oh, dear. I think that's not what Hirata was stating there.

"That's not what I'm saying. I am trying to help you here but I am not going to go against violence or be rude. I know you might not like it but I could tell Manabe-San and the others that you want to apologize for what has happen-"

"Please no!" I wonder why Karuizawa doesn't want to take the pacifist route. That way you can just apologize and get over with it.

"There's no way I can help you then. I'm sorry."

"Forget about it! If you won't do what I ask you, I don't need you!" I heard something was thrown to the floor. "We're finished now. We're FINISHED!" Karuizawa runs off as I stood up from crouching.

"Surprised?" I ask and Kiyo seems to remain silent. I guess she is a parasite. The host seems to be fighting back.

We both walk out to see Hirata as he noticed us as well. "Oh, Akiyama-san and Ayanokouji-san. You scared me. How long have you both been there?" He seems to pretend nothing has happened.

"Hm, from start to finish. That was rough there, do you need me to follow Karuizawa-san?" I ask and he shakes his head. "It's fine. She just needs a moment to cool down." He answers.

"You both heard it all then?" I nod my head. "Kiyo-kun was too tall. I couldn't see much though." I pointed. "... May I ask a question?" Kiyo asked and Hirata nods. "Doesn't your conscience or judgment in your case perhaps feel conformist by that kind of thing?.."

"It sounds like you'd have already figured it out." I folded my arms. "Let's retrace back. You've been dating for four months, yet I have noticed that even though you've been dating. You never expressed any sort of love. Just holding hands, and you both never spoke given names either." I spoke out my observation throughout the months.

"Even with those features, Miyako has said. You remain distant as ever." Kiyo added. "you're right." Guess we were correct on that.

Kiyo seems to be thinking about something. "Then, Karuizawa clings onto you so much that not even a day, we see you out with her..."

"Like a parasite... A parasitic plant or protecting herself perhaps?" I look at Kiyo. "Whoa. Nice theory." Even he said that Karuizawa is a parasite.

"You both really figured that out? I'm stunned yet hearing Ayanokouji-kun saying that just gave me goosebumps." I mean she is a parasite, behaving like one.

Forget about it! If you won't do what I ask you , I don't need you!

"I guess the host is you, you seem to be fighting back the parasite. Without its meal, it starts to die off." I spoke out loud of my thoughts. "Horikita did help." Well, I should throw Kiyo that black coffee can by throwing more sponsorship about Horikita.

But, he remains to smile... He doesn't seem upset or mad that he just "spoke the truth" to Karuizawa. Why doesn't he just lie his way around it?

"Let's leave it at best for now. It's true though, I agree to play her boyfriend to protect her. She asked me to save her." I tilt my head. "For what?" Kiyo questions.

"From everything, I suppose. I don't think the way she acts now is even real. I think she's just forcing herself to act tough." And acting tough means changing your persona to be quite arrogant, causing trouble among our class and outside.

"It might not seem that way to look at her, but through her nine years of schooling so far, she's been the victim of horrific bullying." Oh? Bullying? That's quite a turn of events...

"Oh, I see." Kiyo says as Hirata lets out a sigh. "That's why I want to try and protect her but not in the way she thinks."

"... I can understand why." I said and Hirata looks at me. But, nobody can protect anyone. Not in this game...

"Then Hirata-kun, may I ask why you would want to pretend of being her boyfriend?" I ask and he looks back down at the can. "The past. That's all." He answers.

... Hm. This would work.

[The meeting room]

"..." Oh great. Karuizawa is here. Nothing was exciting, Karuizawa questions both of us if we are the VIP. Kiyo and I said no as the others entered. Ichinose has a deck of cards to see who is the VIP, then we have Karuizawa getting all comfy with Machida.

Those three girls are staring at her though. I guess it's going in motion.

Then the next 2nd meeting. Tension, class A remains silent. All goes well ends well...

"Karuizawa, I'll be in touch soon," Machida says as he walks away, Karuizawa nods happily. I glance over at them. "..." Karuizawa walks away but those three girls started following her from behind.

"Doesn't it seems like those three are acting strangely?" Yukimura asks and Kiyo remains to look at the door. "Are they?"

"Think they're going to pick a fight." Probably.

"Should we follow them just in case?" Kiyo suggested and I shrug. "Sure. Why not..."

"Honestly... we've got enough to worry about with discovering the VIP!" Well, too bad we can't do anything about it.

We three follow each other and we just pretend nothing is happening. And here we are...

We heard a door open and we follow the noise. "Hey! What did to drag me in here for?"

"Don't play stupid. You're the one who pushed Rika, right?"

"Huh? Why would I do that? I told you it wasn't me. I've got stuff to do okay? Can you get out of my way?" After all the further questioning, Karuizawa seems to be denying it all.

Until she apologized, she suddenly remembered but the girls aren't buying it. Looks like those three are going to have fun. "It is okay to have a little fun, right?"

——

From [ ]
To Manabe Shiho
[Subject: deal]

"Now, here's the deal. You will have an opportunity to follow Karuizawa after the meeting table. Whatever she is doing, follow her and ambush her, drag her and take her to a room in this designed area. There will be no cameras there so you can do whatever you want. You can even break her if you wanted to."

——

After those three girls seem to gather up to Karuizawa who's trying to shield herself by curling up into a ball. I remain to crouch down to peak over what is happening. Yukimura was about to stand up but Kiyo grabs his shoulder. "Not yet."

"What do you mean "not yet"?! We have to help her!" He whispers as Kiyo stares at the gap, seeing the scene play out. "Are you okay? We're not gonna let you play the helpless little girl! I hate her face so much."

"What a dog." I heard a picture has been taken and Manabe started to pull her hair bangs. "Maybe we should slide it up a little!"

"Hang on, I think she might be crying! Good idea!" Snaps, snaps, and snaps. More pictures, laughter. Sobbing.

"S-Stop it... Stop it.." Karuizawa sounds like she's going to break down.

"Huh..." Kiyo remains to be quite interested in this. I watch the scene unfold.

Looks like she did get my email after all. The results. A broken, helpless woman having a broken past.

—————
Chapter Twenty - Season two: episode two - image of the person

T o b e c o n t i n u e d

Oh , dear. Hello everyone, been awhile. Yes , I apologize for not uploading since August 11th, had things occupying and I was procrastinating.

Anyway, hope you enjoy that little add I did. It wasn't can on in the story since Manabe did that on her own but I wanted to add a little flare.

Of course, we are getting to that scene. I can't wait! I do need to warn you though that in this season. There may be non cannon scenes that aren't in the can on story. I wanted to try and give Miyako a character instead just a normal Kiyo clone that follows him around like a peasant.

Anyway! See you in the next chapter!

Words: 4437
September 5, 2021

Chapter Twenty-One: The shadow and the light

[Beware there may be OOC moments and I just realized I kept spelling Speranza with a sparrow. Oops]

The light is what people say is the path that will clear the darkness. However, the darkness will always catch up to them. No matter how you act.

[The Speranza - Unknown room]
Kiyotaka's POV

As the three of us continue to see Karuizawa's broken state, trembling in fear and frightened. They say that the more you envy your enemy, the more that you will continue to hate on them. It will try to steal away all the advantages it had over the enemy and use them to its benefit.

"You're such a little coward, Karuizawa. Always hiding behind some man..."

"Yeah, it pisses me off!"

"What happened to all that fire you had before? Are you even listening?"

"O-Ow! Th-that hurts..!"

I continue to watch them continue breaking Karuizawa to the point she is just starting to beg, the sounds of a picture being taken continues. Snap, snap, and snap.

"Come on, Ayanokouji!" Yukimura looks up at me. "Not yet," I answered. "Yukimura-kun. Don't you think that we should wait-" before Miyako could even finish what she was saying.

Yukimura slaps my hand from his shoulder, his voice has raised from whispering to normal. "Enough already!" He said as the girls continue to chuckle before Yukimura goes out of hiding. "Hey, you three! What are you doing?" He runs out, confronting them.

"Wait till they're gone so we don't get in trouble..." Miyako says and lets out a sigh. "Well, he revealed himself so guess we will have to reveal ourselves..." Miyako mumbled, folding her arms as she takes a glance at those four girls.

"What we were doing? We were just asking, right?" The other three seem to continue agreeing with Manabe. "We're going to make you apologize to Rika," Manabe says as the three turn away, the result of Karuizawa covering her face and crumbling to the ground, her eyes continuing to flood out tears.

Miyako and I walk out of hiding to look at Yukimura, rushing in to see if she's okay. Miyako decides to stay behind as I approach her. "Leave me alone." She said, slowly standing up.

"What? I was just trying to help you!" Yukimura said as Karuizawa's face turned from being broken to being back to her usual self. "SHUT UP! I didn't ask for your help!" She walks away from us.

"Karuizawa-san, are you okay?.." Miyako asks seemly concerned for her as she stops, turning to look at her. "Just leave me alone. I'm okay." She answers her and turns back, walking away.

"What the hell is her problem?!" Yukimura says, continuing to watch her walk away from all three of us.

Perhaps I'll try it.

"Jeez! What is her damn problem? All we wanted is to help out." Yukimura says, his anger is letting out but I understand his frustration.

"Calm down Yukimura-kun, anger won't solve anything." Miyako spoke as he looks at her. "But those three girls just ended up bullying Karuizawa like it's a joke and you both decided to stay hidden. And we have Karuizawa having an attitude." Yukimura continued to voice out his frustration.

"It was reasonable for me. Besides, we know what Class C is. They're willing to do anything to win even if it means backstabbing us. Now they know the three of us have seen their actions. It could've been good or bad depending on the circumstances." Miyako explains her reason as I look at him.

"Miyako is right. I stayed aside and thought about waiting it out." Although I was observing more about Karuizawa's behavior. I want to see more of it but Yukimura had to end it quickly.

This seems quite staged however, when did they know that this room will have no cameras? Were they aware Karuizawa is going to walk somewhere? Or was it out of pure intentions?

My eyes slowly turn to look at Miyako as she is chatting with Yukimura. "Yukimura-kun, maybe we should head off for the night. We are already stressed out about finding the VIP so let's calm ourselves down." Miyako tries to support him. Honestly, she says that she doesn't have the best advice but she does have decent social skills.

She's doing a better job now I think about it...

"Yeah, maybe you are right. Sorry about that Akiyama. Maybe the whole VIP thing is stressing me out." Yukimura rubs the back of his neck and Miyako nods. "It's alright. It's understandable since Karuizawa-san is quite arrogant at times. I'll see you tomorrow then." Miyako said.

I notice her voice isn't... tired. More like, genuine emotion to calm someone down. Yukimura nods, waving bye to us as he walks away.

"You seem to be quite expressive." I spoke and Miyako's arms drop back to her sides. "Am I? That would be unexpected for you to say that." Miyako responds, and the usual blank, tired voice has come back.

"I suppose your emotions are coming out. Considering you do have more emotions than myself. I guess the school is slowly making you gathering you the pieces of the humanity that you have lost." Miyako turns to look over her shoulder.

"Humanity I have lost? I only sealed it away, however, I am trying not to unlock as much of it. Emotions do hinder someone's weakness after all..." I frown at her response. Is that what she thought about human emotion?

"Did he tell you that?" I ask and she turns to look forward, away from me. "Perhaps. But you seem to sacrifice all of it that it cannot be obtained." I put my hand into my right pocket, looking down at her since she seems to be quite shorter than me. Even though she is close to my upper shoulder.

I remain silent after her words. Miyako lets out a sigh. "I guess that's how those three acted. And we both get to see Karuizawa's image behind the scenes." Miyako says as she steps away from me.

"Got any plans tonight?" She questions, trying to change the subject. I shrug as my answer. Honestly now I'm quite suspicious if this was Miyako's stage and she wasn't expecting us to follow them.

But I shouldn't really confront her about it. Should I reward her with something? I have heard the older sibling could be like a parent that awards their younger sibling for their best behavior or achievements.

"Nothing, huh? Oh well, here." Miyako turns around and approaches me. She grabs my left hand, setting someone on my palm. "Now, if that monkey dude breaks into your room or something. Just come to my room. He did say you and him are roommates so I suppose you are just suffering there." She said, trying to say that last part as a joke.

Although I can endure it. She lets her hand go and I look to see it was a keycard. "Spare room for you to escape in. See you tomorrow, Kiyo-kun." She turns around and walks away from me. I look down at the keycard. Was it necessary? Or another thing she is learning about siblings?

I put the key back in my pocket and pull up my phone. Perhaps I should go meet with Chabashira-sensei for a certain question.

[ Speranza: Middle level - resident area]
Miyako's POV

It was late at night, I was just staring at the video I have of just laughter and just whimpers from Karuizawa. "I suppose I can use this." I heard footsteps outside of the hall and I sat up out of bed.

I grab my keycard and open the door, stepping out of the quiet hallway, hopefully, I won't wake anyone up.

I turn to look at my left side to see Hirata, exchanging glances with me. We both stood there in silence. I pull up my phone and texted an email to him.

—

Akiyama Miyako
Hirata Yosuke
[Subject: blank]

"Let's talk somewhere that's not in the sleepy hallway."

—

I swipe my keycard as the door opens to my bedroom, nobody except me is sleeping there so I have no roommates only neighbors. Letting the door open as Hirata remains to have a smile. He bows his head and walks inside my room as I follow behind, closing it.

"My apologies Akiyama-san. Did I wake you or were you already awake?" He asked as I sat on my bed. "I was already awake. I heard footsteps outside the hall." I answered and looked up at him. "You can sit if you want." I offer and he shakes his head.

"It's fine. I won't be here for long." He rejects it politely. I do wonder why he is up this late at night.

"May I ask why you are awake?" I questioned and he remains to smile. It doesn't even drop, I wonder even more if it's a facade or something else.

Isn't he tired from today? From Karuizawa's nagging behavior? Especially since he says right to her face that they aren't girlfriend or boyfriend.

"Oh, my mind is just worried about Karuizawa-san. She contacted me saying Manabe-san has gotten into a fight with her and she continues to beg for me to go violent with them. I just can't do that." I blink at his response to my question. Is that why?

"It's understandable, you don't want to get in trouble but you also don't want violence against violence. Then again, she's a deadly parasite that needs its host. But you aren't obeying." Hirata is speechless by my words. I tilt my head. "You seem surprised, what's wrong?"

"It's nothing. It's just you seem to understand the situation with Karuizawa-san and me. But Akiyama-san, I have to be honest but it may sound rude to you so I hope you aren't offended by what I said but... You're a little weird and strange. You give me the presence of like creeping me out." I blink again as I stare at him.

"Oh? I creep you out?... Why do you think of that?" Didn't know I give away someone who would be scary. Did I do something wrong?

Honestly, I feel a bit hurt by that comment.

"Well, I've been watching you since school started. Looking back, the Akiyama-san back then and the Akiyama-san now are like two different people. The presence you use and speak is like you have two different personalities. Back then, you seem emotionless but now, you are a bit expressive." Hirata explains why I creep him out. I'm surprised that someone is watching me and how I behave but...

You shouldn't try to remove my mask.

"Is that so?... I'm sorry if I give you those feelings about myself. My life growing up is quite dull and quiet. So maybe this school and our class may have an impact on me." I said as I was rubbing my left arm, pretending to be quite anxious.

I know Hirata isn't simple to deceive. I just have to play the pieces right.

"Wait so, your life?..."

"Oh, it isn't like Karuizawa-san. It's just I was like an outcast, I barely spoke up nor have any fun activities to do as a child." I continue to try and speak with lies.

"I see... Then I'm sorry if my comment of you is offensive." He bows his head as I shake my head. "Oh, nono. It's fine. I'm used to comments like that. Besides, I've been with Ayanokouji-kun and Horikita-san. I've been reporting what's been happening in my group with her so she is just giving me orders on what to do." Yeah, hopefully, he'll buy this lie.

"Well, I suppose I may have a bad assumption about you. Horikita-san sure seems determined to save Karuizawa-san will guarantee to give our class a lead." Hirata says and I agree with his response.

"But Akiyama-san, I do think you are amazing. You seem so well at helping others and you even have Sudo-Kun respecting you and Horikita-san." Hirata complimented me. Is this a way for me to make myself feel better or something?...

"I'm flattered by your compliment, Hirata-kun but I don't see myself as amazing. I am just a pawn, a doll with strings attached to follow Horikita-san so we will succeed to reach class A." I responded to his compliment with a biased opinion of myself.

"Ah, so that's how you view yourself... But, Akiyama-san. You don't seem to be a doll right now. Your speaking to me, if Horikita-San gave you a list of responses then I will be surprised. But you aren't speaking like a robot." Hirata chuckles, I blink and stare at him with bug eyes.

"Thank you?..." I'm speechless, his words seem to have hit me. Why though?...

"But back on topic, my apologies for getting sidetracked. But I do have to agree. I did become Karuizawa's boyfriend to act and try to protect her." I folded my arms and continued to remain eye contact with him.

"That's not the reason why though. Isn't it?" I ask and Hirata's smile seems to have broken for a bit but he remains to have that same facial expression.

"That's... Something I'm not willing to say. Not yet anyway." Hm? The more questions I ask, the answers he gives will make me curious even more.

Hirata and I continue to stare at each other, exchanging glances as he notices it's getting quite late and he needed to return to his room. He waves goodbye and goodnight as he leaves my room.

I remain to sit still on the side of my bed. Hirata is getting more interesting now. It looks like I'm going to have to try the cruelest path...

Even if it means sacrificing a few pawns or so.

[The Speranza: Day 3 of the special test]
Kiyotaka's POV

It's day three of the test and the Venus group has already concluded. They already have handed in their conclusion of who's the VIP. Class C sure is keeping up their word that they're winning and pushing to be in the lead.

I continue to have my phone up as I was texting an email to a certain person and the email has been sent.

However, I became a bit warier since the email responded with that someone did a similar method for the first time. Someone with this sort of mindset and objective...

It doesn't matter, I'll have to talk with them later. Now then...

——-
[The depths of the Speranza]

I watch from the top of the floor, standing on the bridge as I see those four slappings of Karuizawa. Smack, smack smack. Laughter.

As demonstrated by the Milgram experiment, circumstances can change a person's natural cruelty. Once someone who's been bullied before, they can take two ways.

Being timid, scared. Traumatized. Willing to do anything not to be in that position ever again.

Or... They become the bully themselves.

I continue to watch those four girls having fun playing with Karuizawa. Well done, Manabe. All of did is that I set the scene but yet...

Getting her to rock bottom will save me time.

After what seems to be minutes of just pure bullying, those four have left. They got what they wanted. It was pure revenge and they are satisfied.

I walk back down to the ground as I approach Karuizawa's broken state, weeping as her face is covered with red marks of a handprint. I stood there, she slowly raises her head.

"H-How did you..." she slowly stood up. "Once a bullied child, always a bullied child it seems." Karuizawa gasped as her face turned to anger. "You were watching all of that?" She slowly tries to reach her skirt pocket.

"It'll be useless. Don't bother calling for Hirata." Her face continues to be in shock. "I know he's not your boyfriend and I know that you've been bullied. I know it all from your past. That means I can expose you anytime I like. Breaking your reputation to our class." I said, continuing to provoke her.

"Who the hell do you think you are?!" she raises her hand out, trying to slap me from the right, however...

I won't be the one to take her stress out with. I blocked her slap and grabbed her wrist, slamming her against the metal wall. She winced in pain and I noticed something.

"What? What do you even want?! You just want my body, aren't you?" Karuizawa says as I remain to look at her directly in the eyes.

"Well, to save yourself from ever being bullied again, you chose to hide your past and become a parasite that attaches to others. But in the end... It fails to follow your way. But, now you asked. That doesn't seem to be a bad idea." I let go as she fell to her knees.

I stare down at her. My gaze sharpens as she sat straight.

Rage, panic, fear, despair. I wonder how many negative feelings she's going through right now. Perhaps she's now realizing that I'm not the completely meek, invisible person that she describes me as.

" Spread your legs."

She stiffened, she looks back up at me then looks down, she slowly opened her legs as tears were streaming through her face. I pretend to rattle my belt but Karuizawa didn't even try to run.

She knows she's going to get violated. She'll probably experience pain and feel disgusted by this. But I see this as I have obtained a perfect tool. Karuizawa's willing to do anything for her past.

I threatened her as far as I could to take her womanhood. I didn't care about her body, I just needed to see how far she was willing to go.

But, it is risky. Revealing my true self to her is dangerous, she would report me to the school and I'll probably be in danger. Miyako may be in trouble too by my actions.

Karuizawa fears her past leaking out and losing her role, and her status more than anything else.

"I don't agree with this... This isn't bullying but you're just blackmailing me into doing ridiculous things." Karuizawa says. "You're not resisting then?" I ask as Karuizawa turns her head away from me.

"Do you know what people do when confronted by a reality they can't do anything about? They stop resisting. That thought fills their mind. They don't scream, cry or fight back. They just accept it." She answers as I kneel to her level.

"What's the thing that's hurting you? Such fear, to the point of even surrendering your hod, is abnormal. I think there's more to that." I slowly have my hand reach to her but it raises to her side, raising her shirt up as her skin does feel soft.

She trembles, begging for me to stop as I look at the scar. "Is this it? The darkness? Karuizawa..."

She looks up at me, trying to control her trembling body. "There are many kinds of despair. And what you've experienced qualifies without question. Those with darkness in their hearts are naturally drawn together. And the stronger of the two will always engulf the weaker." I started to explain my reason behind the darkness.

"Wh-What are you talking about?" Karuizawa asks as she looks down.

"The world contains darkness greater than what you know." I let go of her shirt as I stood back up, facing away with my back turned.

"Karuizawa, there's one thing I can promise you. I will be the one to protect you from now on." She seem confused by my words as I turn to show her my phone, the video recording.

"In a far more reliable way than Hirata or Machida could offer." The video plays those three laughs. "The next time they come after you, threaten them. Tell them that you'll release this footage." I put my phone back into my pocket.

"Align yourself with me. There's something I need your help with. Class D will never ascend in its current form. But with you in control of the girls, we can acquire the unity we've been lacking." A role that Horikita can't perform, not even Miyako will handle this sort of position.

"What in the world are you..." I lend out a hand as she slowly stands up. "I'll act in your interest and you'll act in mine. That's the relationship you were after, isn't it?" She takes my hand and slowly stands up.

"All right... I'll agree to it but what do you want me to do?..." Karuizawa says, seems to be unsure of it.

"To begin with, I'd like to win this test. After all..."

[The Speranza - resident ial hall: Ayanokouji Kiyotaka's room]
Miyako's POV

"Well, it's the final discussion, the first meeting didn't go so well either so we have limited time," I said, letting out a sigh. I notice Kiyo is texting on something.

I stood up and peek over his screen but he pulls his phone away. "What are you doing?" I question and he remains silent for a moment. "Nothing much. I'm just texting Yukimura about what has happened so far." He answers as I tilt my head.

"Can I see the phone real quick? I just wanna go message Horikita with something." He raises his eyebrow, suspicious. "Why? I thought you have her contact information?"

"Mmm, I'm sure she reads your emails more quickly than mine. She does say you are more reliable than me." I answer, trying to imitate Horikita's voice with the words Kiyo being reliable.

"Oh. I suppose so." Kiyo hands me his phone and I look at his contact information. That shows the phone number is different.

"And there we go." I sent the message but it wasn't to Horikita. I gave back his phone and went to the door.

It was to Hirata, impersonating the mail to be Karuizawa asking for help but she couldn't call. Hirata wouldn't spend a second responding to an email, he would immediately run to that designed area.

"Wait." I stopped as my hand is on the handle of the door. "If you did send an email to Horikita, she would respond by now as a text message." I remain to have my back turned away from him.

"You were the one who set up the scene the first time with Karuizawa for Manabe. And so, you got me to follow up with a similar plan. You are being quite helpful, Miyako. Your intentions just now..." I shrug as I look over my shoulder.

"Kiyo-kun. I won't bother with it. My intentions are different and so, I won't tamper with your plan. I'll watch from the sidelines to see how you play your game. The queen will stand behind her pawns." I turn away, opening the door as I left Kiyo alone.

[The Speranza - unknown area]

I remain to wait in the shadows, this area is quite dark and has dimmed lights. Not surprised that Kiyo chose the same place that Karuizawa had to endure.

I heard footsteps approaching, running towards the figure. "Karuizawa-san are you okay?!" He stood there in the light, I turn around, walking out of the shadows.

"Huh? Akiyama-san, what are you doing here? I was supposed to meet with Karuizaw-" He suddenly stopped speaking as I show my phone.

"This SOS message?" He slowly backs away. "Don't try to run away. I know about Karuizawa-san's past. I say she did indeed suffer so much. Perhaps I'll use it to ruin her even more." Hirata's eyes slowly widen.

"What are you talking about?..." he ask with uncertainty as my eyes continue to look at him. "Of course, you were trying to protect her. But the reason behind that is because you failed to do something when someone was being bullied as well." I step forward, his eyes continue to widen with fear as his legs were starting to tremble.

"How did you..."

"I did say I know everything. I'll hold her past hostage. Whether you like it or not. If you do try to report me, Karuizawa-san will fall with me." I lean closer to his ear, whispering.

"Akiyama-san... What do you want? Why would you do something so cruel?" He asks, his voice seems to break but his facade smile has also broken when I exposed his reason.

"I would like you to be a main source of information. Your popularity in class D and your leadership will help me succeed in my plans to ascend Class D. More than your plan of trying to bridge you up with Horikita-san." I answered as he looks down away from me.

Hirata seems to be quite resilient, however. When it comes to Karuizawa and her bullied past. He seems quite frightened about what I will do with this source of information. "You didn't seem to answer my 2nd question..."

"It doesn't matter. You be my info guide and in return. I'll try to help you with class A to the best of my capabilities." He looks up at me, uncertain whether to take the deal or not.

"Best of your capabilities? Who are you Akiyama-san?..." he asks another question, looking up at me.

"Agree to it or not?" I ask one question to another. He seems to be quite hesitant. "I'll agree to your deal. But... What do you want me to gather?" He accepted the deal. I remain silent for a moment.

"I like for you to gather information about her..."

—————
Chapter Twenty-one - Season two: episode three part one - The Shadow and The Light

T o b e c o n t i n u e d

Oh my, things happened quite a lot here. We got Kiyo saying AHEM. That, Miyako has earned herself a new pawn to use.

I like to thank you for the ideas about what Miyako will do. I wanted to have Miyako to have Hirata be someone who gathers info for her so she will plan out her way of trying to win while Kiyo earns himself an obedient tool aha.

Now then, this is episode three-part one. Because my fingers need a break after typing thousands of words and I need to share half of my creative brain for schoolwork.

I wonder though what Miyako wants information with...

Thank you for reading again and I hope you enjoyed this chapter!

Also, Rest In Peace Queen Elizabeth.

Words: 4461
September 12, 2022

Status on the story: Part two

The same figure steps out of the shadows, with a book on her hand as she sits down, staring at the reader.

Oh, hello. Been awhile hasn't it? Since September 11th. I like to make an update to the story since I noticed you guys have been commenting a lot. I appreciate the commentary.

But anyway. I've been suffering by writers block or I'm just procrastinating due to school work, my part time job and other things I need to do as a ordinary person does.

Of course, I try to type time to time but my brain is just all over the place due to a wacky schedule.

For now, the story has been hiatus, but I intend to keep writing miyako's side of the story along with her big brother, Kiyotaka.

These drafts written in the pages have not been published yet. So, I've been on the bulletin board, looking ways of creative for Miyako to express her... Ways on the game.

Of course, she has Hirata now as her pawn. But I wanted to do more with her which is why writers block is a pain in the-

Pardon my language. Now, I will try to keep posting chapters if I could atleast get a chapter done so you guys can enjoy it.

You can leave your ideas here on what would you like to see in this story. I am open up to suggestions. It could be anything that comes to your mind.

Thank you for waiting so long for a chapter. I promise I'll try to get it in. Hopefully.

- scarlet

October 11, 2022

Status on the story: part three

Ah, here we are once again readers. Yes, I haven't updated in like months! Wow, never knew procrastination took a toll and writers block. I was even working on writing the next chapter that was the whole meetings thing that revealed the classes results. Then school came in.

Fantastic isn't it? I've been trying to push and endure writing but I sure feel like I don't wanna continue working on this story.

But I really wanna see Miyako's character develop among the world in classroom of the elite. So that's why I'm not giving up yet! Expect the next chapter of the whole vip meeting at Monday!

Hopefully. If the writers block doesn't say "HI WE'RE BACKKK"

Post your ideas of what you wanna see in the story if ya want too!

- scarlet

Chapter Twenty-Two: Switching pieces

[Beware, there are some OOC moments.]

The pieces of the game are important. Each piece has a role and sacrificing one of them would make the outcome victorious.

[The Speranza: Meeting room]
Miyako's POV

I entered the room to see Kiyo and Ichinose talking to each other. "Hm?" They turn to look who was at the entrance. "Oh, hello Akiyama-san!" Ichinose waves, and I blink. Just staring at them. I bowed my head as I walk to the chair and sat down.

I didn't turn to look at them. I rather try not to be nosy in their conversation. "You guys are here quite early," I said and Ichinose giggled. "Oh! We were just talking about the exam. Right, Ayanokouji-Kun?" She turns to look at him and he simply nods.

The other students who are in the group had entered the room. The final discussion.

Class A and Karuizawa sat out of the group. All of us were just staring at each other, in silence. Ichinose remains to have that smile on her face. She claps to get everyone's attention. "Well, everyone! We have tried all the methods that we have to use this last method." She said and everyone looks at her, puzzled looks on their faces or just boredom.

We tried to play cards to see who is the VIP but nothing. Ichinose tried board games or such to try and lure the VIP but there wasn't a lead. So I guess their last method would be...

"We are going to have everyone show their emails!" Ah, that one. I guess that there is no way out of this one for the VIP...

I turn to look at Karuizawa whose eyes were looking at me. I tilt my head as she turns her gaze away. "..." That look doesn't seem too happy.

Hamaguchi stood up from his chair. "We're aiming for a victory in which we all unite to guess the VIP, right correctly?" Some of the students in the group seem to disagree or be suspicious of the whole method.

"Okay, I think we're going to have to buckle down and try a different method."

"Huh? A different method?" Yukimura asked as Hamaguchi looks at him. "I think you know exactly what I mean. We'll show each other our cell phones." He said, showing his cell phone.

I lean my chin against my hand. Staring at him. Do I think this is the best course of action? Perhaps. This will trap the VIP into the corner and won't be able to succeed in getting their 500,000 PT.

I look around at the others who seem to either be disagreeing or just not trust the plan at all that Hamaguchi proposed. This plan may not go well unless Ichinose has a backup plan.

"You said that we should just gamble?" Ibuki asked and Hamaguchi nodded in agreement. "The VIP themselves and those trying to protect them be reluctant to show their phones. That should let us narrow it done." Hamaguchi continues to explain their plan to reveal the VIP.

This entire room has just turned to constant chatter. Machida scoffs in disbelief. "You think we're all going to take a high risk on that?" He said with that smirk of his, thinking nobody is going to gamble on it. Ichinose spoke up, "You seem upset about it, Machida-Kun." Once she said that Machida's face turned to be confused.

Ichinose continues to speak with the reason that if the meeting comes to a deadlock then nobody here gets any of the class points. Although, it seems like Ichinose is using Hamaguchi to just bait others saying it was his plan.

With the way Ichinose is mostly speaking up and explaining the outcomes, I could just say that they must've talked about it. "No one has to show their phone who doesn't want to but since it was my idea after all. I'll show mine." Is it now?

Hamaguchi set his phone down, showing the email that he hasn't been chosen for the VIP then the classmate next to Ichinose shows their phone as well.

Well, this isn't going very well as planned, if someone refuses to show their phones then it will be a dead giveaway that they are the VIP. Our classmates didn't seem to be quite fond of the plan.

"Alright, if that is the case then I'll participate as well," Kiyo says and pulls out his phone, showing the email. I turn to look over at him. "Ayanokouji?!" Yep. Yukimura and the other guy didn't seem to be fond of that action. "Ayanokouji-Kun, are you sure?" Ichinose asks, quite surprised by his actions. "Yep." He said. You sure sound confident there.

Kiyo pulls in a bit closer to show Ichinose his phone, yep, she sees that he isn't the VIP. Ichinose glances over at me and I pull out my phone. "You're not the VIP either..." After what just happened, it looks like everyone is now participating in revealing their phones, even Ibuki and Karuizawa, and now Manabe.

How unexpected a turn of events full of stubborn people.

However, everyone turns to look at Yukimura who seems to be hesitant. This doesn't seem to be like him at all...

"Everyone, promise me you won't out the VIP this early..." He put on a guilty face. Kiyo looks at him, "Yukimura, you're..."

Yukimura shows his phone, revealing he's the VIP. "I'm sorry, I lied to you, Ayanokouji. I'm the VIP." Everyone was shocked. Except for me who is unfazed, I gaze to look at Class A to see Machida smirking with his other classmates. Everyone was trying to agree on terms to not expose Yukimura.

However, I think it's not going to happen. Considering what I just look at, Class A is now known to be class Arrogant...

Then, the phone rang. My attention was looking on Yukimura. Figures...

[Flashback]

"Well, it's the final discussion, the first meeting didn't go so well either so we have limited time," I said, letting out a sigh. I notice Kiyo is texting on something.

I stood up and peek over his screen but he pulls his phone away. "What are you doing?" I question and he remains silent for a moment. "Nothing much. I'm just texting Yukimura about what has happened so far." He answers as I tilt my head.

"Can I see the phone real quick? I just wanna go message Horikita with something." He raises his eyebrow, suspicious. "Why? I thought you have her contact information?"

"Mmm, I'm sure she reads your emails more quickly than mine. She does say you are more reliable than me."

"Oh. I suppose so." Kiyo hands me his phone and I look at his contact information. That shows the phone number is different. "And there we go." I return the phone to Kiyo.

[Flashback ended]

Could've seen this coming but I had my suspensions. Besides me sending that fake email, I was going to check if he tried the method of phone swapping to make sure that I wouldn't mess my plans up with his. There was his contact information. Since each SIM card holds the information and phone number.

He must've gotten info from the teacher. Originally, I was going to stand aside but I wanted to use my time gathering information on trying to gain advantages to try and win the game my way. Like always, Kiyo is one step ahead of me.

"That's Ayanokouji-Kun's cell phone, isn't it?" Ichinose says. Yep, thanks Ichinose. You screwed everyone up. I think Kiyo was going to try getting outcome four. Discussion time ended and Class C shouted at us for betraying their trust.

How fantastic. Machida remains to have that cocky smile. "Well, let's hope nobody breaks your trust." He said and walks away. Looks like they are going to assume Kiyo is the VIP. I look at Kiyo who doesn't seem fazed by this.

A double-layer trap.

[Observatory Area]

Guess this place will be a suitable spot. I sigh and look at my phone, reading the email.

I started leaning against the railing of the observatory area, looking at the night skies as I heard footsteps approaching. "I got your email. That was quite fast." I turned to look to see it was Hirata.

He was standing there, not smiling or anything. Yet he seems to be worried. "Akiyama-san. Are you sure we want to let her do this? We will lose our advantage..." he says, voicing his uncertainty.

"It'll be fine. We will just let her do whatever she wants." I answered. "Why? What if she makes things more worst now she's-"

"It won't matter. If we make a move now, then she'll be suspicious already. Besides, I already have Class C making their moves on us." I interrupted what he was going to say. I turn to look away from him.

"You said that you are going to try to get us to class A. That was part of the deal.." I let out a sigh. Looks like Hirata seems to be quite stubborn.

"I can't just snap my fingers and be the Holy Spirit of everything. There are bound to be consequences. I just have to pull the string and it'll play to victory." I lean away from the railing.

"That ends our discussion. Now, don't contact me for an in-person meeting unless it's necessary. I don't want to attract any attention." It's just for Kiyo not to guess what I've been doing in the shadows. I walk away from Hirata. Leaving him alone in the observatory.

A notification came from our phones. Hirata is in shock as my eyes look over my shoulder. "... Huh?! This is.."

I pull out my phone and look at the email. Oh...

Looks like they're getting to us pretty well.

[Meeting area]
Everyone at this table right now is in shock. Karuizawa, Sudo, Kiyo, and Horikita are sitting down on the chairs while I remain standing against the wall.

"How did this happen?" Horikita asks and Karuzawa is in disbelief. Class C won with 100 class points while we received 50. Class A just got flunked and Class B remains with no changes.

"I like the look on your face, Suzune." Oh no, here we go with dragon boy. "As you can see, I knew exactly who the VIP was." Yep, the confident smirk of his.

Horikita stood up, defending herself here. "However, we didn't have a traitor in our group. If you'd known who it was then you would have betrayed us-"

"Kushida Kikyo. Wasn't it?" Ryuen continue to explain that he noticed her strange behavior since Day two of the exam, complimenting Horikita's facial expression to be sexy and walking away. Kiyo and I looked at each other, exchanging eye contact.

Class D might be in a more difficult position soon than we expected.

—————
Chapter Twenty-two - Season two: episode three part two - switching pieces

T o b e c o n t i n u e d

Short Chapter yes but I just had the urge to try and get this chapter done. I did say that this story is back. Fully motivated the author. I think-

I hope you guys didn't miss me that much, I see a lot of comments about the story and I plan on continuing it. Just the whole writer's block made it trouble to process my way of trying to convey my ideas in words.

Anyway! Yeah, keep sharing your ideas of what you wanna see with Miyako. Since then I got Miyako to be someone getting so much info from her little puppets.

For those who are still reading the story. I can't appreciate how thankful I am that you guys are still reading this story! But anyway, See ya!

Words: 1980
January 16, 2023

Chapter Twenty-Three: The Meaning of Being Normal

[Beware, there are some OOC moments]

Everyone suffers from something different from everyone else, they may be judged by their appearance or their mental state. In the end, someone will eventually be different from the normal world. Nobody is normal.

[The copyright version of Starbucks cafe]

Miyako's POV

After we returned from the Speranza, most of our classmates went out to try and take a break from the special test before returning to our usual routine. Although, Hirata invited me to be a part of their discussion early in the morning.

So here I am, Hirata, Horikita, Karuizawa, and Kiyo who is having his back away from everyone. Great, I'm surrounded by the two class representatives and Karuizawa the parasite.

Horikita stares at me. "Now then, let us talk about how the special test results and how they figured out the VIPS." She says.

"Can't believe that class C won.." Karuizawa said and Horikita was trying to figure out how they manage to win more than us. "It's maybe because of our group names." Hirata answers which got my attention.

"Hm? What got you to say that, Hirata-kun?" I ask and he looks at me. "Well, the order of the group's planet from the sun and the names of the students of each other. That was key to finding the VIP. Does that make sense?" I nod. Although, I kind of already figured it out.

Each planet symbolizes a number. That number is that VIP. "Huh?... I still don't get that." Karuizawa says, tilting her head.

"Well, it goes like this. Your group was Mars. The fourth planet. Each group goes by the lettering of your surnames. One was Ayanokouji-kun, Akiyama-san, Ichinose-san, Ibuki-san, and then Karuizawa-san."

"Wait that's five! Then it shouldn't be Ibuki-san being the VIP! So how come I was?" Karuizawa pointed it out. "That's where I'm trying to figure that part out..." Hirata glances to look at me.

I may have made a deal with a teacher beforehand.

*flashback*

At the beginning of the exam. Just after we finished talking about the rules and receiving an email tomorrow at 8 am. Since Chabashira-sensei is willing to do anything just for her class to be in Class A. I made another deal with her.

"... Hm, Akiyama-san. What's your business here with me?" Chabashira-sensei asked, turning around to look at me. The empty theaters as the sun illuminates from the cracks.

I stood there in silence. "I like for you to make an exception with me. The placing of our group."

Chabashira-sensei seems to be quite intrigued. "Oh? And how exactly will you do that?"

"Simple really. I would play along with their group. However, I would wish to be excluded to be within the list of VIPs. It would cause quite a hassle if I were there. Consider this as a part of my plan to try and achieve your goal." I explain the purpose of the deal.

"Hm. Very well. I'll try to talk with the teachers about excluding you from the special test. Perhaps you'll be on the list of a special case for just one special test." Chabashira-Sensei said.

*flashback ended*

It seems like she upholds the deal. Seems like she kept her word after all. However, this deal of her's just kept me in the line of her strings so she could get herself to class A.

Eventually. Those strings will break and I will be the one to play the puppet master. I glance to look at Kiyo. He seems to have known something about my deal. The term twins can read each other's minds is quite strange indeed.

"Well, it won't matter. Ryuen has already figured out the rules and just followed his instincts I suppose." I answered. "Oh. So that's why I'm the VIP?" Karuizawa followed with that lie. Perfect.

"And then we have my group. Earth. The third one. Kushida-San would've been the candidate and she was." Horikita added to the explanation.

"But isn't that system a little too..?"

"Simple." Kiyo answered and Karuizawa immediately agrees to that. "Well. Once you know the rules of it. It's going to be simple." Horikita says. "But figuring out during the test wouldn't be. There would be no way to confirm the rules just by knowing your own class's VIPs." Hirata counterargues the explanation.

"It would seem to be." Horikita agrees with his argument. "But not for ryuen. He must've figured it out early. Which is why Akiyama-san says he has figured out the rules.." Hirata added to the explanation.

"But he made a mistake." And here we go with Horikita trying to counter-argue with ryuen. They both continued saying their reasons why ryuen won. Such as class C isn't under his control. Hirata mentioned if one of the students made some sort of change within the class.

I look at Karuizawa who was just looking out the window then her eyes gaze to look at Kiyo. He looks back at her after setting his coffee cup down. Karuizawa widens her eyes in shock then turns to look back at the window.

That made me quite curious about what was going on between the two of them.

Now I think about it. Since when Karuizawa-san is okay to sit next to Kiyo?

"Still! I'm glad that you came to us about this, Horikita-san." Hirata says, smiling about her talking about what's in her thoughts after the test.

"What choice do I have? There may be tests coming up that I can't pass on my own." And Horikita is back to being the so-called independent loner.

Hirata agrees to Horikita's reasons. Although I think it's just to try to build Horikita's trust. Karuizawa's eyes turned to look at me. I gaze back. What's up with her?

[Classroom]

The second term of the semester begins. Chabashira-Sensei discusses that now our schedule has changed to have gym classes frequently from now to prepare for the sports festival. Hirata raises his hand to ask if this is another special test.

However, a few of us didn't seem very excited by the word sports. Class D will be with Class A along with the second and third years.

"Are you thinking about how you'll finally get the chance to see him?" Kiyo asks Horikita. By the word 'him', I assume Horikita's brother. Isn't that fantastic?

"Don't talk about that here," Horikita says, trying to adjust the papers. "Sure sure Horikia-San. But don't you think that you'll finally get your brother's approval that you're doing well? Class D?" I ask back as Horikita looks at me, yep she isn't happy.

"You two don't even bother trying to corner me here. I won't tell you both a second time." Horikita pulls up the sharp pen. Kiyo immediately backs down. "Uh huh.."

"You should think of more ways of not relying on your compass pen. Just like what your brother says about trying to follow his shadow." I said as Horikita is furious. "Oh is that so?"

Chabashira-Sensei knocks on the paper to get everyone's attention. I'll just simplify what she said so you readers don't need to hear the rules.

The events consist of mandatory and voluntary events. Voluntary grants more points than mandatory ones.

The penalty for losing here is quite severe. Such as the student who places in the top three in individual events gains 1,000 PPt or points on the written exams.

Students who place last in individual events lose the same amount of points. 1,000 PPt. If private points currently below will affect the written exam.

Receiving bonus points will increase the score on the written test.

This feels like a wish coming true but it doesn't seem so easy. Each student here depends on their athletic and teamwork abilities.

However, the lowest ten placers receive a penalty. After that, there was a lot of chatter about what to do with the sports festival.

Chabashira-Sensei was looking at the class then her gaze is looking at us. Most specifically, Kiyo. I notice and turn to look at Kiyo. I feel an intense atmosphere already...

[Hallway]

"Kiyo-kun, mind ordering the same one you have?" I ask. kiyo looks at me and just nods, ordering the black coffee can as it drops into the vending machine. he bends down and grabs both of them and hands one to me.

'Thanks, Kiyo-kun." I pop the can open as Kiyo takes a sip. Yep, I dislike the strong aftertaste of black coffee.

"Is something the matter? Your face shows some hint of disgust..." Kiyo asks and I look at him.

"Why do you like black coffee? I rather have unsweetened green tea than this.." I question back and continue sipping it anyway. Just enduring the bitterness.

"Well, I have a tolerance of caffeine, as an average normal human being would preferably drink sweet coffee instead of bitter coffee. Which I assume that your tastebuds right now." Kiyo explains his reasons why he even likes it.

"Yeah, I guess so-"

"Which just like your womanhood can make your mindset on an urge for sweets-"

Before Kiyo can even say anything else. I just gulp the entire black coffee to have some of it left. "we don't talk about that."

Horikita approaches us. "Horikita-san. I think we both need a break from not stabbing us with a compass p-"

"We need to discuss. Think about it. The island and cruise ship tests had infinite possibilities. I've realized that the case now, so this time, as well-"

"What do you think makes this test significantly different from the previous test?" Kiyo asks the question to Horikita.

"It seems like another special test to me." Horikita answers.

"Horikita-san. The special test has the same requirements such as points and such. On paper, it is the same as paper exams..." Horikita looks at me.

"And what you mean by that-"

"In practice, it is different." Kiyo turns to look at her, focusing his attention. "For instance the written exams. Although there was a hidden trick regarding buying things with points, fundamentally speaking. It was still a test of academic ability."

Kiyo starts walking away from Horikita and I follow from behind. "So what you saying is..."

"We should assume stamina and athletic skills are in the order of Day," Kiyo says. "So Horikita, there are no sneaky tricks or anything to cheat on. It won't have many results." I added to his explanation.

Kiyo stops walking for a moment. "The most important thing here is strict preparation before the events, such as focusing on school events to be working out. That's all." Kiyo finishes his explanation.

"Preparation is just what I'm talking about here." Is that so, Horikita?

"Horikita-san. From what I'm hearing. You're trying to find easy ways to fix this such as loopholes. You just want to have someone be absent before the completion or drop halfway. Have you taken into consideration what happens?" I question Horikita's intentions.

"Huh? I wasn't even thinking of such thin-"

"In other words, you want a surefire method." Kiyo answers.

"What are you both saying? You both suggest that we have to fight and win through orthodox means?" Horikita ask.

"it is up to you how you take our words," Kiyo says, pointing his can at Horikita. I ran to catch up to him.

After a few walking distances. I decided...

Now we are alone.

"Kiyo-kun. Is there something going on between you and karuizawa-san?" I finally ask what's been on my mind.

"Hm? I don't know why would you ask something like that." Looks like Kiyo trying to lie.

"Is that so?... Then why is Karuizawa-san all of the sudden not disgusted or annoyed?" I continue to just try to push his limits.

If I even can with the interrogation...

"Miyako. If you need to understand the reasoning behind everything I do, we'll never proceed with our goal to get class D to class A. I can't be the one to always tell you what is my objective." Kiyo says and continues to walk ahead.

"Then I suppose I can figure out the reason why the phone swap was your idea? And the SIM card. Something like that would mean you had Karuizawa-san do something.." Kiyo stops walking, and he looks over his shoulder.

"We were raised in the same room yet separated from each other, you were placed somewhere else. You can figure that out on your own but don't even bother trying to follow in your brother's footsteps. Don't mess around with my tools." His gaze was dark. It made me suddenly silent. What is this feeling?

I guess people say when the older sibling is quite annoyed by your actions. I suppose.

"Alright fine..." I stood there, just silence. Kiyo continues to walk ahead, leaving me alone.

I pull out my phone to send a quick email.

——————

[To H
[From A]

"Monitor the class's behavior."

———-

After I sent that email. I went back to the classroom to discuss what is their next objective.

The entire classroom is arguing about what to do. First, was Sudo yelling that the class should do it based on their skills? I turn to look at Kiyo who is just on his phone. I tilt my head.

More ways for me to be curious about what he does...

"Don't mess around with my tools."

I wish I knew what this feeling is.

Yukimura simply says that Sudo should take all the voluntary events which Sakura just agrees with.

"If everyone agrees with the skilled method then the voluntary events-"

"Wait." Horikita stood up. Simply, she has no objection to the skills one. However, she proposes to have the most athletic members in the voluntary events where they specialize in.

Instead of two fast people to race for example. They should eliminate one, then spit them with the least athletic person to guarantee higher placements.

The other student stood up, trying to counteract that the plan seems to reduce nonathletic people to win anything. Ike seems to be doubting himself that they might lose their chance.

Although Horikita's idea seems to get some of the class to think about it. Some disagree with her idea. Saying the top three students will get the bonuses. The simple way to say it, Horikita just tells them to focus on their studies.

"Uhh, may I?" Karuizawa's voice occurred within the classroom. Her hand was raised.

Oh, dear. Here we go again...

Karuizawa argued that Horikita seems to be quite selfish in her idea. Saying that how could she let the other students fail. Blaming how people are too stupid to pass a test on their own.

Randomly Karuizawa asked Kushida's opinion. I notice Hirata was looking at Kushida, monitoring her.

Kushida says that it's quite tricky. However, she likes both of the ideas. This place seems like a courtroom. Karuizawa is a defense attorney while Horikita is the prosecutor. Both of them continue to counterclaim their opinions.

This is Karuizawa we are talking about. She's the leader of class D's girls. So whatever she says, they might agree.

"Everyone please calm down." Everyone's attention is up on Hirata. "If we can't agree on the idea. We should just settle this with a vote." Hirata suggested. At least he calmed the environment. It was tensed up.

"If Yosuke-kun says it, I'm in!" Wait, since when Karuizawa started using first names?

"Horikita-san's idea is to focus entirely on skill, while Karuizawa-san's is to allow personal opinion into discussion. Let's show of hands."

10 raised for Horikita while 8 is for Karuizawa. Some abstained, such as Kiyo and I. Horikita didn't seem to be happy that we both did.

I just didn't wanna vote into it. Well, it's settled for the group.

As the rest of the class left to do whatever they needed to do. Hirata and I were the only ones left.

"That email you sent."

"Yeah. Report?" I ask, going straight to the point.

"Well, Kushida-san opinion was biased from my point of view. She seems to agree with both of them. However... Karuizawa-san suddenly stood up for her opinion. It didn't seem out of character to me. Although, Ayanokouji-kun was on his phone halfway through the conversation he was not on it after Karuizawa-san stood up." Hirata explains what he saw based on what he was focused on monitoring the class's behavior.

"Other than that. The rest of the class is anxious about the special test or disagrees with Horikita's idea at all." He finishes his explanation.

I let out a sigh. "After the ship's special exam... If this sports festival and class C may seem victorious. I suspect there may be a traitor."

"Huh? Traitor? Wait, you can't say that those three people are the main suspect-"

"Who knows? That's just my theory. If that happens then we can pinpoint who's the suspect later. Just be like yourself." I grab my book bag and turn to walk to the door.

"Akiyama-san. There's something I need to ask of you." I look over my shoulder. Hirata suddenly was a bit close to me.

"What is it?" I ask.

"Will you try your best for this exam?" Is that what he wanted to ask of me?

"Who knows?" I shrug and open the door, leaving Hirata alone in the class.

[ Stairway]
Kiyotaka's POV

"Excuse me." I turn to look who said that behind me. It was Karuizawa.

"That email you sent me. Mind telling me what it was all about?" Oh, so that's what she wanted to talk about.

"You did a good job of making a good argument on the spot," I say, complimenting her on what she did during the class's argument.

"But I agree with Horikita-san's opinion though and I don't understand why you wanted me to get Kushida-san's opinion. What was the point of that order?" How bothersome it is for Karuizawa...

"If you have to ask me every question on what is behind my actions and everything I do after will be for nothing." I continue trying to walk up the stairs.

"Then tell me one other thing." I stopped, looking over my shoulder. "What is it you want?" She asks.

"To bring class D to class A," I answered plain and simple. That's what Horikita believes anyway.

"That's not what I mean! I want to know what YOU want?" Oh, my thoughts? What is my goal?

"Oh, that? Well, I'm happy to make my current class one capable of rising to class A. That's how one begins to feel." I answer more of her questions.

"Oh is that how it is?! You think you're much better than us?" Oh, she took that negativity.

"You wouldn't believe me if I told you now and I can't prove it to you. So I'm going to create a framework to allow you to believe me." Karuizawa seems to be confused by my words.

"During this sports festival, class D will produce a traitor." Once I said that Karuizawa's eyes widen.

"The traitor will likely spill all of class D's internal information to others." Karuizawa is flabbergasted. "Huh?! Wait! G-Give me something more concrete than that!"

"I will when the time comes."

"A T-traitor. Wouldn't that be dangerous to just leave them alone?"

"The groundwork has already been laid. Now go, we don't wanna attract attention." We both went our separate ways.

... Now then, there's something that's been on my mind besides that situation. I wonder how Miyako is. She seems quiet... Lost in her emotions.

[The gym]
Miyako's POV

Well, today is just basic training for the sports exam. We all were doing these grip strengths as I notice some of the girls are either in their 40s or 50s. Not surprised if some of the girls lack physical physics.

Once I had the grip strength item, I looked at it. "... Hey, Karuizawa-san. Quick question but what is the average of a female's grip strength?" I ask and Karuizawa turns to look at me. "Huh? I don't know, maybe 40's? Since most of us got a similar result. Why?"

"Just curious." I look back at the gripper and slowly grip onto a designated strength. 44.6. "What's your score Akiyama-san?" I look at Horikita.

"44.6" I answered and she wrote it down on her records. I can tell she raised her brow when I said my score. I turn to look at the boys. Seems like Kiyo's turn. "60.6." I blink. Did he show a bit of his strength or something?

"Woah, Ayanokouji-kun. You sure seem a lot stronger than you look." Hirata said. "But isn't it average?" He asks, a bit confused.

"No, usually 45s and 50s on average." I look around to see who was closest to him. Sudo. Dang, I feel bad that his role of trying to be normal went wrong.

[Behind the school, track area]

Everyone was in their groups on training. Some seem exhausted, some just seem to be at ease. Kiyo and I look at Horikita. "I'm going to go talk to her," Kiyo says, walking to her.

"Alright." I watch just seeing both of them talk. Well, let's just say it didn't go well.

Kiyo and she decided to go out for a run, Horikita didn't match his pace, and yep. Failed. It seems like Horikita didn't enjoy the little lecture but it was for the best.

I look at Kushida. "... hm? What's up Akiyama-san?" She noticed.

"Nothing. I'm just checking the other groups just by looking at them." She approaches right me.

"I figure you still going to try and expel me?" I ask, in a soft voice that nobody could hear besides her.

"Yep. Even with that video, you are just a bit scared to report it~"

"And you going to expel Kiyo-kun and Horikita-san." She nods in the agreement. Then she turns around and walks away from me.

I wish you luck with that. Class D's traitor...

—————
Chapter Twenty-three - Season two: episode four - The meaning of being normal

T o b e c o n t i n u e d

I'm here~ anyway, thanks for being patient with me again. Hopefully, I'll be writing more on the sports festival arc~ and more sibling bonds. Aha!

Hope you enjoy reading! See you in the next chapter!

Oh wow, that's funny. The last chapter was published on January 16th!

Words: 3793
March 16, 2023